People can say hurtful or offensive things.
Do things to make our lives more difficult.
Annoy and inconvenience us, even in the smallest ways.
It’s really freaking hard to be kind when these things happen.
Our instinct is to reflect to them who they’ve been to us.
To say something rude back.
Make their life more difficult.
Annoy and inconvenience them.
We might even take it out on the next person we see.
Seeking some sense of retribution or justice.
Even if only a fleeting illusion.
Yet, all we’re doing is perpetuating the problem.
Doing nothing to stop the cycle.
We don’t have to play that role.
Somebody might say something rude to you.
Do something that makes your life more difficult.
Could even simply be a small annoyance or inconvenience.
You'll want so badly to return the favor.
Why not show them kindness instead?
You don't know what battles others are fighting.
What problems, insecurities, or pain they’re carrying.
Choose to be part of the solution.
To be a light in their darkness.
You might even encourage them to do so for somebody else.
If not, that’s okay.
You can only control you.
Do what you can.
It’s all you can do.
You’ve got this.
