One of my posts yesterday was sort of a self back-patting piece wherein I discussed my talents. It inspired one individual to admonish me because I often say things about myself that are rather negative...insinuating I am stupid or incapable, things of that nature.
And it occurred to me that if this friend takes these comments seriously, others might also. And since I know at least three of my siblings and three of my friends read this at least occasionally, as evidenced by that many people having posted occasional replies, then others might take those cracks seriously as well.
And that changes things. One thing I take very, very seriously is my role of role model for my brothers and sisters, in particular. Please, do not be insulted if you are a friend...this is not a slight on you but rather a reflection on how our family developed and continues to develop and the sometimes leadership position I have there...something I do not have with my friends.
I have been told by all four siblings at one time or another that something in a class I taught impacted them, etc. I have been told I am one of the biggest influences in the life of one sibling. I count 4 of my siblings among my closest friends and believe they do, on occasion, most of them, actually look to me for advice and leadership.
That is something I take very serious indeed. And it is nothing I will jeopardize, intentionally or otherwise.
If they were to take my light-hearted (intended, anyway) self-flagellating comments seriously and lose esteem for me, I would be crushed. No joke is worth that.
No, my goal is to provide for them an influence of someone who reveres intelligence, kindness, goodness...I want them to be better people than I have been, to exemplify the Golden Rule and the Fruit of the Spirit.
And part of that is recognizing when I am wrong, admitting it, and changing it.
So expect to see fewer self-crackbacks in this space in the future. Hipefully there will still be fun and comedy interspersed with rants about what is wrong today...hopefully someone will have mercy on me and post a comment on either the "Don't read this if you have a weak stomach" or "It's hard being a redneck" jokes and admit you laughed...but even if not, one thing will stay true. I will always, in print and life, try my best to provide a positive role model for all of you I love and care about...especially my family.
4 years ago
2 comments:
You are a wonderful person, Senior Woodchuck. (This is a serious comment!)
I almost never take you seriously when you pop off with self-deprecating remarks. I think that it is sort of a family trait. I also think it is an effective tool for ensuring that we as people remain humble. It's hard to be arrogant when you are making jokes about yourself all the time. It's also great for comedic effect, especially when you make out like you "slipped" and made a comment which mocks you. Plus, the way I see it, if I make all of the good jokes about me, then noone has anything they can make fun of me about. :P
Anyway, here's hoping your flatulence comes more when other people are not around.... ;)
(Yes I do know the meaning of flagellating is not the same as flatulence.)
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