Monday, February 6, 2012

Quote of the Week

Image Source:  Wikipedia


The robbed that smiles, steals something from the thief. - William Shakespeare, Othello

You don't have to steal or be stolen from to experience this.  Every time we smile at someone who was rude, petty or hurtful, then we have one-upped them.  Those who take pleasure in others' discomfort are thwarted by the very thing they sought to erase.

9 comments:

  1. Man, is this ever true. But sometimes it's so hard to convince yourself of it, because you often don't get to see their reaction and you want so badly to slap them instead.

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  2. Hi Linda .. so true - if one can get past the anger bubble and react in time - I'm getting better and certainly not replying any more!

    Just need to remember the smile ..

    Cheers Hilary

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  3. This is I've always said to Mo. If you are nice to someone who has just been rude to you, it's like a blow to the jaw for them.

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  4. Hmmm, this is a tough one for me. I don't know if I necessarily agree with it for every situation. Now I must contemplate... :-)

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  5. You're as wise as Willy, himself.

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  6. True words of wisdom, Linda. Sadly, there seems to be an inordinate amount of sourpusses about. It takes fortitude to keep greeting them with pleasure!

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  7. Ah yes. I love the KILL THEM WITH KINDNESS approach!

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  8. This is very good advice, but not easy to take.

    I do find, however, when I'm able to do this, for example,smile when someone's rude,I feel better. It's not because I one-upped them or anything; it's more I kept myself out of their emotion. Does this make sense?

    Great quote, as usual:~)

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  9. Margaret- It sometimes is a hard thing. That's what makes us better for doing it. Sort of like "love thy enemies", etc.

    Hilary- Yes, smiles can turn lots of situations around.

    Babs- It may even change their mood or attitude. Never underestimate the power of a smile.

    Nicky- As always, these quotes are open to interpretation, and to make us (including me) think.

    Hilary- Thanks. Now remind me who is Willy?

    Talon- You are right about the sourpusses, but we don't know their circumstances. I have gone around in a bad mood, most likely looking a bit sour myself.

    Meleah- Yeah, it doesn't make us better than them, just better people in general.

    Sara- I get what you're saying. Your smile may bring them up, and at the same time you are not letting them bring you down. It's just the right thing to do.

    I love all the responses here. Much to consider as we go through our daily lives.

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