Recently, I had the opportunity to interact with someone who seemed to be suffering and wanting me to suffer too. I tried to respond with compassion and kindness but the conversation continued to move into a more and more negative tone.  Anger and judgment thrown like daggers can attract like responses back.  I do not want to play this now.  Ever.

I was left feeling drained, second guessing my replies and also a bit sad.  It is difficult to not take on some of that suffering when you are so close to it.

Closing the moment, I tried let it go and let it pass through me.  I do not want to still be holding on to these emotions if another chance meeting occurs.  I would like to let the next meeting be new and just that particular moment, no ties to the last.  The past can stay in the past.  I am present.

-michele

photo courtesey of cinocino