When we assume, we’re relying on the information we have to feel a certain way about how things turned out. But what if we don’t have all the information?
What if that friend didn’t call you back like they said they would because their kid got sick and puked all over the couch and while they were cleaning that up they burned the chicken casserole? What if they’re not actually mad at you, just overwhelmed. I’ve definitely done that and it’s never ill will that’s behind the oops.
All kinds of what ifs could happen going into someone doing or not doing something we thought they would, so why not offer them the benefit of our doubt (not generic “the” doubt, own it because it’s ours) and if we’re going to assume, assume in such a way it doesn’t include anyone being an a$$.
Maybe they’re just doing the best they can, maybe the spirit of rejection we have has nothing to do with them, and maybe we need to be the ones reaching out asking if they’re okay. Most of the time, the lack of understanding is from the lack of effort to understand.
Deeper Than a Puddle 