From Dawn to Dusk the journal

Thursday, April 26, 2001 * perceptions reign As I was taking my early morning stroll around the neighborhood today, I was thinking about people and their "perceptions".  If someone says something to us whether it is, "Have a good day!" or "whatever..." - our perceptions of what these words really mean can vary tremendously. To some, the words, "Have a good day!" is like saying, "Eat shit and die!" (read this recently in another's journal) and to someone else the expression, "whatever..." (which unfortunately I use quite a bit myself) is the same as saying,"f - k you...". Now in all fairness, it is possible that this is what can be meant - on occasion - and by some.  But I would like to think (and please no Polyanna references) that most of us mean exactly what the words imply. We all live in our own little worlds and think that it's the other fellow that's weird.  Well, I'll be the first to admit that I'm pretty weird myself (who else is out there typing at this time of night?).  My dear husband is snoring away in the next room and even my cats are  sacked out . And I learned a long time ago that you can choose to believe whatever you want.  So I choose to give most people the benefit of the doubt.  Hey, it's my choice, yes?  It doesn't mean that you don't get screwed on occasion, but in the long run, I've been pleasantly surprised.  Despite all the stuff you see and hear, I've found that most people are good - not "saintly" good, but they mean well. Didn't plan to run on and on here. Sorry. I mentioned sometime back (in a previous journal or article) that I "collect" words and sayings that mean something to me.  This last little bit of philosophy I read somewhere and have always found it very workable. It has to do with 4 basic rules of life.  I'm paraphrasing here, but it's something like this: 1.)  Show up 2.)  Pay attention 3.)  Be honest 4.)  Don't be too attached to the results This last one is the zinger. I believe it to mean that you must do what you think is right (like giving to that homeless person on the street) despite the outcome (he may buy booze with what you give him but - that part you can't control).  In other words, it's the intent and not the result that matters... or It could mean that despite our good intentions, sh-t happens.  Bad things happen to good people, etc. We know this. But as Mother Teresa said (to paraphrase again), do good anyway!  I think she's right. Oh, god - getting really tired.  Better call it a day and finish this in the morning. Night all! Rian

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