Recently, I’ve been thinking about engaging in some relatively large purchases: a new ride, businesses, diamonds (not for me), etc. For some time now, my SUV has been out of commission as it has an engine issue that may not be worth repairing. Because of this, I’ve been rolling around in a minivan, which certainly offers benefits for my current lifestyle.
Today, I witnessed 2 different people dent up my minivan and surprising responded in 2 very different ways.
Dent # 1
The first incident occurred as I was waking up from a nap in the back of the ride (I took the middle-row seats out so my dog Rocket can have the back all to himself). I’ve been experimenting with taking a quick power nap before an intense workout or writing session. As I was getting ready to open up the sliding door a lady swung open her rear driver’s side door and banged the side of the minivan with a loud thud. At first she didn’t know I was right there looking at her and she laughed it off as if she didn’t care. As she closed her door and turned she saw me through the tinted glass and just froze with fear/shame. I just sat there watching as she slowly entered into her car as if nothing happened. My initial reaction wasn’t so positive and I captured a few photo’s of her ride and license plate in attempt to make her feel even worse with me following up with her later. She then sped off as I exited the ride to inspect the dent. Although I reacted with slight anger, I had work to do so I decided to let it go.
Dent # 2
The second incident occurred as I retured back to the minivan. Before starting up my ride, I was sending a quick photo of some treats I bought for Rocket and then some lady walked up to me with a deep remorseful look. She apologized for lightly hitting the front of the minivan and was waiting for me to step outside and start yelling at her. I guess I was so focused on my phone I didn’t even notice it. I quickly told her it was all good and that the minivan was just a material possession. She still looked very sorry and questioned why I didn’t at least step outside to take a look if there was any damage. I reassured her that everything was fine and it was as if a huge burden was lifted from her shoulders as she gratefully smiled, and was able to go about her way in peace. This time, I was more understanding and focused on the feelings of others instead of myself.
Lessons Learned
Human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes of mind.
~ William James
Why did I exhibit 2 very different attitudes when my ride was dinged? In both incidents no lives were in danger, only slight cosmetic damage to material possessions. As I pursue elevation in all areas of my life, I must always remember that the things that cost money in life are replaceable, whereas, the things we receive for free are priceless and irreplaceable (our minds, health, dreams, vision, love, family, etc).
Things that we get for nothing we place little value on, whereas things that we pay money for, we value. The things that cost us money are relatively cheap and can be replaced at any time.
~ Earl Nightingale
I take today’s dents as a reminder that we have the power to control our thoughts and actions. Instead of senselessly reacting, we can choose to thoughtfully respond.
Perhaps I was able to let go of potentially negative feelings because I know I’ll be driving something else in the near future? As I write this, I wonder what my attitude would be if this happened to my newly purchased vehicle.
How would you have responded if these incidents happened to you?
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