Respecting Those Who Deserve It: A Tale of Unexpected Gratitude

Have you ever encountered someone in your life that, upon first glance, you would not have expected to gain respect and admiration for? This is a story of just such an encounter.

A Militant-Looking Lesbian as a Nurse

I met someone who left a lasting impression on me a few months ago. She was a militant-looking lesbian, with butch hair, tattoos, and an imposing presence. Standing at six feet tall and weighing around 280 pounds, she had enormous weightlifter shoulders and arms. At first glance, I expected her to have an attitude and to not be particularly friendly. However, my expectations couldn't have been more wrong.

Unexpected Kindness and Professionalism

This was a nurse taking care of my 97-year-old mother in the emergency room. Despite the challenging and often chaotic environment, she rose far above my initial expectations. She was incredibly kind, thoughtful, gentle, and responsive to my mother's needs. Although she looked like a bouncer, she turned out to be a total pro, even in such a busy setting.

That night, I gained a great deal of respect for her. Stopping to thank her, I looked her in the eye and expressed my gratitude as she walked away from the car.

Respecting Non-Manipulative People

I have a great deal of respect for all the non-manipulative people in my life. Being kind and respectful is a minimum standard everyone should uphold. However, what amazes me is how many people falter in this regard from time to time. It is truly remarkable to observe the many occasions where individuals choose to be unkind and disrespectful, even though it is not necessary. What is more surprising is that they often find it difficult to own up to their mistakes, fearing that it will be used against them.

Dealing with Manipulators and Extortionists

The key to dealing with manipulators and extortionists is to diligently separate allegations from facts. When we approach situations with honesty and a fearless attitude, it becomes clear who the manipulators and extortionists are. These individuals fear exposure the most, and the more they fight against it, the more desperate they become.

Final Thoughts

Our interactions with others can often be unexpected and enlightening. Sometimes, we meet people who defy our expectations and leave a lasting impact on us. It's important to recognize and honor such individuals, not just for their actions, but also for the respect they deserve.