Day 115

Day 115: Real Time

Whatever it takes.....

Day 11: 21 Day Complaint Free Journey                 


Remember my list from a month or so ago? It was the four topics that are certain to send me off the cliff, caustic complaints spewing as I tumble over the edge.

For those of you who have recently joined me on this journey and as a reminder to the rest of you, here is the list:


Our city government.

The educational system, both locally and nationally.

Incompetence in general.

Parents who don’t parent


I bring this up for a reason, as you’ve probably guessed by now. I visited the lair of #3 yesterday, and I must say, I did pretty well. I did some deep breathing as I parked my car, and then I sat and looked at clouds for a few minutes. That always helps me prepare to face the gnome who lives snarling and drooling in that particular dank cave.

While there, though, I ALMOST got snagged on the razor-sharp teeth of trying to explain that which cannot be explained with any sense or logic to someone who wouldn’t have heard it anyway. My mouth started to move, my hands began to flail around, and I started to speak. I’m sure I sounded like I was strangling. I managed, though, to gulp down those words, the ones that would have made not a whit of difference. The ones that would have put me back to Day 1 in a heartbeat.

I left as quickly as I could ride the elevator down and then practically ran to my car. That was close. The issue that took me there in the first place is still simmering and stewing, and may never be resolved. The fact that it involves my livelihood matters only to me. I learned a long time ago that no one is indispensible, and I also know that I am capable of doing whatever it takes to take care of things.

I avoided any discussion about that particular beast for the rest of the day. I stopped at my favorite deli and had breakfast, the smells of the bagels and other goodies enveloping me in warmth and their comforting carbs. Eating always helps. (Refer to earlier columns about my issues with food.)

During the afternoon, I took some steps to become free of the gnome in that building if it becomes necessary. Sometimes it pays off to live with labels like “Type A Personality” and that other female descriptor that cannot be printed here.

As I always taught my daughter: “Whatever it takes.” But, in any case, I can take it without complaining. I just proved it.

Day 11.