“You could be right, they might come for me at night – an angry mob with torches bright outside my door…”

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I do a great deal of research at a local college library.

 

It suits me there because it stays open late (0200 closing, most nights).

 

Needless to say, I’ve become solid acquaintances (I don’t like throwing around the word “friends” lightly) with some of the employees. 

 

 

 

While chatting with one of the staff, I watched a female coworker of his celebrate her successful effort to manipulate/guilt him into buying her soda just prior to my arrival.

 

Like so many men, he had aresigned look as if this is just the way things are supposed to be.

 

Anyone that’s spent even a moderate amount of time reading/listening to me should accurately guess what happened next.

 

 

 

See, I lost my government career standing up for what’s right.

 

So I sure as Hell will put the impression of me held by a few night-shifters at risk for it.

 

I looked her in the eye as I addressed him:

 

I’d have told her the water fountain is over there. 

 

Of course, once her initial shock faded, she immediately complained about fountain water’s temperature and level of filtration.

 

I cut her off, tersely saying:

 

Then bring money next time. 

 

Or go thirsty.

 

It’s no one’s problem but yours.

 

I then turned my gaze on him, and quoted ► my first book ◄:

 

 

If you give your dog a treat every time it pisses on the carpet, then don’t be shocked by the cleaning bill.

 

 

 

This brings me to this week’s homework assignment.

 

Practice saying “no” and voicing displeasure.

 

Of course, use thoughtful discretion regarding any helpless children or employers (for reasons I believe to be obvious).

 

But, otherwise, stand firm.

 

 

 

Now, one thing to keep in mind is tone and attitude while doing such.

 

Don’t be petulant. 

 

Don’t whine.

 

Don’t be combative.

 

[If absolutely necessary, leave the area right after, until you get accustomed to disappointing/upsetting people.]

 

In short:

 

Simply “be yourself”.

 

And understand that act is often much more difficult than is commonly realized.

 

 

 

 

 

7♣