Just for the Record, Tolerance Can Be a Great Option

Just for the record, I am normally a law-abiding citizen.  When my kids were younger, on a sunny, summer day, I had to take my son to an unexpected trip to the doctor because he was really sick.  He had a fever higher than my comfort level and we took the only appointment available for the morning.

My young daughter was at a morning "kiddie camp" and was to be dropped off around noon.  My pediatrician was running about an hour late so after our appointment, I had to rush to make it home in time to meet my daughter.  

Alas, checking the speedometer was not on "my radar" but it was on the policeman's radar as he pulled me over.  Do you agree that there should be some leeway for extenuating circumstances?  If not, you may want to check your tolerance levels.  I obviously had a sick infant in the car and I showed him my doctor's receipt.  No tolerance today, my friend.........not cool, Mr. Policeman.

Of course, I don't want anarchy.  I love peace and promote it daily.  But I also love common sense decisions.  The ones where someone says, "yeah, I get it, don't make a habit of this, but you are off the hook this time."

So if you have the chance to cut someone a break, you may want to consider sharing the love by letting misdemeanors (and/or traffic tickets) go every once in a while.  Harsh, rigid punishments do not always fit the crime.

I accepted the consequences of my actions.  I paid the ticket, and I am happy to live in a country that is safe most of the time.  I (mostly) don't hold a grudge against him.  He was doing his job.  

I felt powerless wishing my doctor would hurry up, I felt powerless trying to get home on time for my daughter, and then it was compounded by feeling unheard when I tried to explain my situation.  Excuses sometimes do matter, because none of us can control the world.  We can only control our reactions to what happens.  

So, my best possible outcome is to work through my reactions and release.  Releasing negative emotions like guilt and shame help to move forward without building up resentment toward ourselves and others.   Working through our feelings of powerlessness is important to happiness.  If you believe you reap what you sow, perhaps tolerance is a good filter to have when you are in a position of power.

Have a great day!

xo

Conni

Today's Mantra:  I am willing to consider tolerance when I am in a position of power.

Mantra for Every Day: I choose to send love to all; receiving love back multiplied in infinite proportions, creating and nurturing pathways of love.