Part of Slice of Life by Two Writing Teachers
I’m not always nice.
I think maybe I used to be nicer.
There’s this lady down the street
She has a “Love everyone” sign in her yard
But she was so mean to my baby last year.
and when I see her around, I yell at her
in my head
“Love everyone? What about a little kid trying to make his way in this world?”
But on my face, I smile.
Yesterday I saw her running by me in the park
and I’m waiting for my reward since
I did not stick out my foot
and trip her.
I’m not always nice.
I think maybe I used to be nicer.
I went on a walk with my puppy
who pulls and tugs, tail wagging to greet
every
person
he
sees
and when a young college student grimaced and hid in her boyfriend’s arms,
I raised my eyebrows and said,
“He’s just a baby”
In a sarcastic, condescending tone –
Even though I totally get why she was worried
I’m not always nice.
I think maybe I used to be nicer.
Oh! So many example of the things left unsaid and undone if you cracked open my head. Wouldn’t it be awesome if we DID get credit for the not doing?
And then I wonder if I used to be nicer or used to be less authentic. Hmmm
I had that same wondering while writing!
Oh, the people who preach kindness — like your neighbor — or those who tell you that no one should gossip… They’re often the worst violators!