Standing Up

My parents taught me many things, but one thing they really pushed on me was to stand up for yourself. More or less in a round about way. They never sat me down at the kitchen table and said hey the world is tough and people are going to hurt you and test you, but make sure to stand up for yourself. It was more or less a learned lesson as I went.

I don't like confrontation so I rarely spoke up for my beliefs. Even at times when I didn't agree or feel something to be right I always just stood back. Recently, I've been learning how to stand up for myself as well as others. Let me tell you, it hasn't always been easy, especially for someone who would rather walk away. But I've become more confident. I've been able to speak up to my boss and district manager as well as others. I think being in a position of authority has allowed me to do this. Some friends have also encouraged me to be more open and speak up for myself.

Today I learned how much standing up for what you believe in and what is right can cost you. Pushing your limits and testing the waters can open up amazing opportunities or it can get you a warning and a lot of unwanted words from your superior. I can't say it was me this time who pushed the limits, but I was definitely on this other person's side and had her back. She wasn't at fault and I made sure to let me feelings be heard.

Sometimes you have to do what you don't want to do. Sometimes you have to make that leap. Sometimes you have to push limits. Sometimes you to stand up for yourself and others. That's what makes some people so amazing. The ability to risk it all for beliefs.

Peace&Love
~l