The entitlement of our society has cultivated some of the rudest people we have ever seen. We encounter rudeness everywhere. It’s the person who knowingly cuts in line at a store. It’s the obnoxious driver who feels the roadway is a Nascar course. It’s the co-worker who sees you walking behind her and doesn’t bother to hold the door for you. It’s the person who flicks a cigarette butt out the car window (major pet peeve of mine!). It is a rare day, indeed, that goes by when I don’t encounter a person that makes me groan inwardly and wonder if I am only one of the few decent human beings still left.
I often find it difficult to quickly disregard situations like the above. I will stew over them, wondering why that person has to be so inconsiderate. How would they like it if someone cut in front of them in the store or while driving? Didn’t their parent(s) teach them not to litter? This, my friends, is where it is far too easy to fall into a societal trap. It can often feel vindicating to stoop to their level and give them a taste of their own inconsiderate actions. A kind of “if you can’t beat them, join them” mentality. However, the satisfaction is not lasting. The moment will be fleeting and then you’ll be left with a hollowness which tells you that you have compromised your authentic self. This is the Self that says you are better than that action and better than that inconsiderate person. So, how then, do we rise above when the temptation is so great?
We look to our Duchess Kate, of course! She certainly sets the precedent on how to handle insolent individuals. We know Kate certainly experiences impertinence in her own daily life. She is followed by the paparazzi, some of whom have crossed the line most definitely. I’m also sure some ignorant troll has managed to slip in a snide remark or two, certainly within earshot of her, in an effort to try to tempt her to respond unfavorably. Yet, we’ve never heard or seen Kate use vulgar language or obscene gestures. If we had some girl chat time with Kate (can you imagine?!), she would probably say that a rude person is not deserving of your time nor attention. Don’t give them the satisfaction; they thrive on picking a fight.
In addition to the above, I think Kate would further provide the below advice:
I leave you with this final thought: It may often feel as though we are fighting a losing battle against the majority of society. However, there is a reason you came to this website and are reading this article. You want to better yourself, and the world, by looking at Duchess Kate as an example and role model. I like to think of us as her ambassadors. We must lead by example with a sense of regal authority, kindness, and compassion. Those who are the receivers of kinds acts are more likely to pass along the kindness. Last, but not least, remember this funny little adage that rings so true: “Don’t wrestle with a pig. You’ll both get dirty but the pig will enjoy it.”
What a lovely post! Thank you!