WHAT IF

It's probably always been this way. We, self included,

are so quick to peg someone and give them labels.  

Sometimes it's at first impressions 

at other times it is after frustration with the individual. 

They didn't do what we wanted and 

we were happy to plant a label on them.

How often has a person been labeled 'critical', when in fact he/she is very adept at being a problem solver! Their brain works in such a way that they immediately see what needs doing; they are practical and rather than being 'judgmental', they are perceptive and decisive. 

We probably get very defensive the minute they open their mouth. 

What if instead we listened and heard them out?

Our parents raised us to be punctual, which meant we were to be thoughtful of other people's time. I cannot count the times I have been labeled 'rigid' because I believe in being early or punctual rather than late. Oh, I know that circumstances beyond our control can make any one of us late, but cultivating it as a habit is another thing. I've been told that some people have the need to be late; 

this affirms to themselves their importance
by making everyone wait upon them. 

Meetings should always start on time - even if folks will be late.

What if some of us learned patience?

What if others of us learned to be punctual?

The friends that I think are totally fun-loving, outgoing and free-spirited, others have labeled as silly, loud and irresponsible. I love their spontaneity and energy, it rubs off on me, but others whisper that they are so goofy, immature and hyper! I still remember a young wife who hated when the rest of us laughed at the quick wit her husband displayed; she wanted him to grow up! She couldn't see the natural joy of life that the rest of us saw
and wanted him not to embarrass her. 

What if she was the one who needed to mature and chill a little?

So many other character traits come to mind. 

What if we found a more positive label?

What if someone you have labeled a manipulator 

is actually a skilled negotiator or go between?

What if the person is a friendly and great communicator,

but you think they talk too much?

What if you look down upon someone you see as a doormat, 

when in fact they are very thoughtful
and know how to be accommodating, 

yet they still get their own work done excellently and efficiently?

What if you don't like what you perceive to be
a people pleaser or mushy, 

when in fact they are sympathetic and compassionate?

What if to you he's a snob, so cool and aloof,
perhaps even boring, 

but I know that he is shy, calm, even-tempered,
private, philosophical and reserved?

I'm sure there must be those who impressed
you so highly at the outset and later, 

as their true character revealed itself, 

all you could feel for them was pity! 

But, are there times when your first labels were wrong or unfair, 

and you had to change your mind or even apologize, 

once you understood the other person better?  

Just something I've been mulling over lately...... 

What do you think?