I have learned over the course of my life that “killing them with kindness” really is the best way to deal with rude, nasty people. Being overly nice to rude people usually makes them even more aggitated, which isn’t the point, but isn’t a bad outcome either. It can be kind of amusing to see someone who is so nasty get even more frustrated as you treat them with respect and kindness. After all, why sink to someone else’s level right?

The thought that being nice to someone can actually annoy them is kind of strange. If someone is in a foul mood and they are treated with respect one would think it would brighten their mood, right? Not usually. In my experience, nasty people will stay nasty regardless of what you do. So why not be syrupy sweet? It won’t help you to respond with rudeness.

There is a Methodist church near my home that has a large sign out front. This sign always has the best sayings on it. This weeks is: What sunshine is to flowers, smiles are to humanity.

Exactly.

So next time someone is really ruffling your feathers or just plain acting like a big ol jerk…smile. Smile wide and bright and don’t for one second let them drag you down.

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