I have been feeling a bit cranky about the incident regarding the fine from the strata council. It really upset me -- a lot. In fact, it threw me for a loop. It's funny how unpleasant people like Su-Marie can have a domino effect. But you know the old saying, "Laugh and the world laughs with you ... " So, I'm going to smile until I don't feel so cranky anymore. I think I'll go for a long walk around the Stanley Park seawall, and perhaps pop into the Sylvia Hotel for a good, strong gin and tonic. And then maybe I will feel like a little ray of sunshine again. *heh*Bear with me -- this too shall pass... I hope. :-)
Oh! That's why my comment got eaten!
ReplyDeleteJo, I was just riding in, words aplenty to say that I truly hoped that things would be better. That it was understandable to feel frightened, but that troubled young woman doesn't define the whole. I suspect that's the crux of the matter, you crossed paths with someone who would misuse your kindness.
I was trying to send you good cheer, and rays of hope and while I was typing? It seems you looked at the beautiful day and found them on your own!
Yay!
Cheer up! The Su-Maries of this world are rarely happy people. One of these days she'll bite her own tongue and poison herself.
ReplyDeleteI like your blog. I'll be back and hope to see you bright and positive again, a walk works wonders!
I should have added: I came to find it, and couldn't find that post anywhere, but found 'Little Miss Sunshine' which seems to be the most current one you've made on your blog.
ReplyDeleteIn any case, I think what you were (and are) is a FRIEND TO ALL IN THE COMMUNITY, and you've likened your kindness to others (a friendship that you felt, and also what you extended to those you've helped), and those in your community were quite happy to enjoy your friendliness; your kindness, and your assistance, but don't feel a mutual 'friendship' simply because they are not as kind in nature, and in fact might find it very handy to USE YOU when it fits their needs.
I'm much like you, and have many times been 'hurt', by the very things you're talking about here.
It's like cold water in the face, when you realize that all you envisioned in your mind; all the kindness you felt in your heart, has not been gratefully received, the way you intended it.
So, it makes it very easy for those who just 'live' in a community, but who do not feel 'friendship towards those in the community', to show little regard or understanding for your issue with the bird house; they just treat you as a 'number'........
I did comment on your bird house incident because this happened to me with my bird feeders.
Fortunately for our HOA rules, the manager is required to give 3 notices before invoking a fine. So, I took down the feeders; now I just lob the bird-seed out into the common area and into the Palm trees, so I can still feed the birds but not be guilty of hanging up a 'feeder' that violates the rules.
I think we see ourselves as part of the entire WORLD community; that's why we provide 'housing for the birds' as well as food; that's why we are FRIENDS with the 'world community', and we are stunned when we find out that many people don't view life like this at all.
I suggest if you're allowed plants on your balcony, that you find a nice fig tree plant; put that up, and let the birds come to 'nest' at the base of it, and if your balcony is covered, then you can set out a few planter-pots; put those drip trays on TOP of those planter pots, and you'll make a little 'shelter' for the birds as they can snean under there (entice them with a little bird seed).
You can create a little haven and out-smart the manager, I'm sure.
Diane
Whoops - I should have written - the birds can SNEAK under for shelter. I've done this by turning the pot upside down, so the fatter part is sitting on the surface of the balcony, then the big round drip plate sits on top of it - I put the seed on the plate, and the birds sit underneath the plate...works very well.
ReplyDeleteI don't remember if I commented on the original post - but I was all annoyed on your behalf. In a semi-drugged up kind of way. Hope your path to sunshine is easily found...
ReplyDeleteBeing already into SUNday over here, allow me to offer you some rays of light to brighten your night.
ReplyDeleteJo, I'm flabbergasted but I think you handled it perfectly. At least now you know exactly where you stand with her and her with you (maybe not good English, but you know what I mean!). Hope the memory dims soon and your walk helped!
ReplyDeleteThank you, everyone. I am feeling better now, after a long walk. Now I'm going to have a nap, and I will feel even better. *heh* Cheers!
ReplyDeleteJo, you ARE little Miss Sunshine. I am smiling with you....
ReplyDeleteYes Jo just smile, being happy is the best revenge, don't let the pettiness get to you!
ReplyDeleteHope you had two then walked home in some much needed rain.
ReplyDeleteI know how difficult it is to let go of such things. I can hardly ever do it myself. Not until I milk it of all the negative feelings I can muster.
ReplyDeleteJo, I hope you had a nice walk and that gin and tonic! :)
ReplyDelete