The need for an Anti-Bullying rally seems to have filtered down to even the lowest common denominator. This afternoon I received a call and the person on the other end starts to blast me. “Why did you say/do whatever about me/whoever?” The anger and venom in their voice could cut like a knife. A number of years ago I would have been reduced to tears, sputtering and trying to apologize; assuming that I was at fault.
But no more! When the caller paused for breath; I responded.
“Are you trying to give me attitude? If you are bring it on! And what do you mean calling me up and giving me a hard time about (whatever the issue)?”
Some of my grief comes from being the president of my Housing Cooperation. A Housing Coop is, by definition, a not for profit group in which each member has an equal say. Yet all too many members are looking for a land lord when they perceive something is amiss.
In reality, we all face incidents when another person wants to rumble. For a parking space, a grocery cart, a place in line – you know how it goes. But like the child I was at six years old, I will not be bullied! Anyone who wants to discuss a matter with me is welcome to do so, in a calm and reasonable manner. Should they crank up the attitude and volume, they will get it right back!
No one asked me “ Am I afraid of intimidation”?
If you want to deal with extremely rude individuals then you just have to work retail for a few years. Add being young, female, and the manager into the mix and you can get some extreme attitude. I basically since having worked in retail try to see the person behind the counter, and try to be courtesy to others. It's kinda of sad though because usually when people call me up because of something gone wrong with an appointment or telling me sorry that I had to wait so long, usually I just shrug say it's fine. They are almost always open mouthed shocked at my laid back attitude. However I'm with you and with the give what I get, because really there is no reason to be rude to someone (esp a complete stranger) just because your pissed off at the world (for the minute anyways).
ReplyDeleteI have met so many "rude" people in my line of work over the years.. "Some" People think they are so superior to everyone else, it is sure discouraging ....Needless to say, I don't let these so called bullies get away with treating me that way, I am known to hold my own...I sometimes wonder if people are so insecure about themselves, that they purposely go out of their way to put other people down ,to make themselves feel good or more important..I don't take any crap from anyone...what gives them the right to push (or try to ) anyone around.....I call them "RUDE"...
ReplyDelete