I have a friend that shared with me very directly an observation she had of one of my weaknesses to which I responded, “Thank you! That is so true. I need to work on that.” Knowing it is something that I desire to improve upon, hearing another individual and friend speak to it struck me in a way I hadn’t before realized. It was a realization that the weakness she pointed out, is known not only by me, but evident to others as well.
As I was receptive to her candidly sharing what she had noticed, more about what she saw in me was provided that was quite enlightening. In a way, I felt that this friend’s observation of me added to an accountability I had not only to myself, but to others to work towards improving my character flaw. Meaning, if it is noticed and brought up by others, I am more motivated to do better and work harder on improving that area of weakness. No more casual approach to working on it and brushing it aside for another time, another day, but beginning right now to actively make a conscientious effort to do better.
Do you have a weakness that you feel you’re the only one that knows about it and, therefore, you’ll take your time getting around to doing better? What have you done when you find out from a friend or others that they too are aware of your weakness? Are you grateful? Do you feel shame that others know? Are you embarrassed? I must say that when the dust settled and I was in quiet reflection, I was slightly discouraged, but then quickly picked myself up acknowledging that I did not need to get down on myself, but view it rather as an opportunity to grow.
This has happened in similar fashion several others times in my life that my weaknesses were addressed and pointed out by friends I knew loved and cared about me. Their input was a well-received tender mercy that changed me in a good way. I began managing and decreasing my out of control OCD of germs, improving at empathy and relating to others going through hard times, listening more and digesting what others say rather than quick to speak and share my knowledge. I was receptive and open to their feedback and had a desire to be better. I don’t have it down, but I am improving myself to becoming a better me.
tendermercym♥ments~jld