.....people how to treat us." I don't when I first heard that or when for the first time it struck me as an axiom, but it has the benefit of being both true, and virtually ignored. I've learned--especially of late--that we do in fact teach people how to treat us--though often times we don't "see" it.

Being willing to walk away from someone when you know that you could most likely placate, convince, hold on--is not an easy thing to do. Saying goodbye to the potential that an "us" had when it is barely walking is beyond difficult. But it is sometimes necessary, and sometimes, though not always, its own reward.

This isn't directed at anyone here--there is no code in my writing that one person might or might not pick up. But coming off of a tough decision regarding something all too short in duration makes one saddened at first, and then (as I felt this morning) very content.

We teach people how to treat us, and sometimes that means saying "hi" while other times it means parting, knowing that we've stood our ground (however shaky) and not allowed for the unacceptable. This isn't about men and women, short or tall. It isn't about whether you have been divorced twice or never married. It's not about kids young or old, or about who did what to whom. And it is NOT about refusing to change. I hear that, all the time--how people are not going to change for someone. I don't know, but I'd like to think that a powerful change in my life will not force change, but allow me to feel comfortable changing. We change daily--we aren't the same people we were ten years ago, and we won't be the same ten years from now.

No, it's all about what we allow, how much of it we allow, and where we draw our own lines. I recently taught someone how to treat me--by saying goodbye. How about you--what are you teaching people today?

-Drew

so true and so powerful are your words, makes me really think

Drew,

Very well said, you are absolutly correct.
I have always told people that others will do, whatever you let them. Whether it be your mom, dad, boss, spouse, whoever.
They is figuring out how you want to be treated, and sticking with it. Know what you will and will accept and put up with.
I am always open to change, I can alway be a better person than I am no matter what. I can always learn more. However, there are limits to how I will let someone treat me.

Personal boundaries are the soul of self respect and respect received from others. Standing by them helps you respect yourself and requires others to respect you. Alot of women do not realize this, men also. Good post

Drew07_2
Never thought of it that way.
Very true
Thank you