Dear Christine,
HOW ARE YOU? I hope you’re in good health.
I just want to share my concern with you. Here goes. I have a problem with most people I meet. You see, I like to talk about the weather, what is happening around the world or about the environment.
I work with some people who mostly like to talk about one another behind each other’s backs, then smile at them when face to face. It happens all the time. Even the boss likes a lot of gossiping.
I am not perfect but I do not like bad-talking anybody. If there is something to be said, I think people should say the truth about things, not whatever comes to their mouth.
They often speak in my presence and when I hear what they have to say, I am often very depressed. I am saying it as it is. They are big people who should know better.
At times when I ask them to do anything for me, they make excuses such as they forgot –I know, however, that’s not true.
I just wanted to share those words with you. Who can I talk to?
Thank you for reading my letter and I will be looking forward to your reply.
– WENDY
Dear Wendy,
We live in an imperfect world and it is not possible to programme people so that they act, speak or respond the way we would like them to. At times we just have to set good examples and hope others would learn from us.
You write as someone who has no control over your situation. The truth is, you do have some measure of control.
You’ve said your co-workers say certain things in your presence – well, you can opt to exclude yourself from their conversations – just walk away.
There is nothing that says you have to stand still and listen to gossip or any kind of conversation that displeases you.
In addition, desist from asking them to do you any favours – that way you won’t be disappointed when they say “no”.
If you do these two simple things, you’ll realize there is really no need to be depressed or disappointed.
– CHRISTINE
