Thursday, December 22, 2011

When Is It Appropriate to Smite a Gorgon?


We all have those experiences, those individuals that cross our path that just mess with our ‘Bliss’.  The person that appears normal at the first, or even second meeting, that lulls you into thinking they are a rational individual, operating on the “Roberts Rules of Order for Normal Human Behavior” and then WHAM!  They wack you right up side the head with some outrageously bazaar act of ickiness, so mean that you are left dumbstruck.
I’m not sure I know what is the correct action in such a situation.  A good smack always comes first to my mind (kidding), although a pie in the face might do.  Something, anything to make them wake up and see the absurdity of their behavior.  The few times this has occurred to me the individual in question has been acting from blind self interest, so absolutely certain of the rightness of their cause they can’t see the pain, confusion and overall chaos they are causing.  They are like an evil Gorgon on crack!  Dashing around in this whirl of negative energy causing mayhem and destruction.
My question is...when this is not a gorgon, but a real individual, and the person being hurt is a loved one, what do you do?  in the past, I have watched a precious relationship being sorely tested, intruded upon by a third party.  I was close enough that was really painful to watch.  But, smart enough to know that it’s not my journey, not my decision,  not my place...blah, blah, blah.  Taking the high road sucks, sometimes.
What do I do with my emotions, which range from anger to outrage?  I know I’m supposed to let it go, breath, meditate...more blah, blah, blah.  I would love to hear from you.  What have you done in similar situations?  Slayed the Gorgon? (where’s my sword?) Watched from the sidelines and prayed for the best?  Journaled like a maniac, seeking relief?  What?

4 comments:

  1. Ok, my lead in caveat is that I am a warrior and a rescuer by nature. I also don't subscribe to the idea that I am only meant to observe. My previous tact would be a full-on verbal lashing of the said "gorgon"... thus earning my cape for the day. Today I approach things differently... I will talk with the injured party about their impression, feelings and ideas of the situation. If they ASK me to step in on their behalf, I will, gladly. If the ASK my advice on how to handle the situation themselves, I will offer it. I see NO HARM in talking with the "victim" and saying something to this effect, "I'm under the impression that your relationship with "Gorgon" seems to be causing you discomfort/pain/annoyance, and I don't like the thought that you're being hurt. I want you to know that I'm here for you, in whatever way you need... to talk, to listen."
    That being said, all bets are off if someone is messing with my baby, then I'm going Rebecca DeMornay on them a la "Hand That Rocks the Cradle" :)

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  2. Jamie
    Thanks so much for this level headed feedback. I am doing the 'if you need help' phase, thus far...But, I'm definitely feeling a little Rebecca DeMornay comin' on. I appreciate your feedback, and the little giggle.

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