Let’s face it, no one likes to admit they were wrong about something. Anything, in fact. Admit it.
It’s difficult having to be the better person and fess-up to your mistakes, however small they might be. Whether mis-judging someone for no good reason, taking a comment totally the wrong way or just thinking that you had some superior advantage over a debatable incident…being wrong is one helluva big pill to swallow.
I’ve been there, done that, too many times to honestly count but I’ve eaten my share of crow, likely well-deserved. The aftermath can leave permanent scars, where family relationships are concerned and where friendships might have been made.
Of course, leaning towards the more lighthearted, even just plain stupid mistakes, some are just too embarrassing to dig up from their deep and shameful graves. However, to keep within the suggested guideline for this post, I will share one. Just one.
Picture this, a city in another county, many years ago. While doing some shopping, I happened to meet someone whose wedding I’d attended a while before. Through the family grapevine, I had been told this new bride was pregnant and when I said hello, I took a look at her rather large tummy and exclaimed “wow, you’re glowing, when’s the baby due?”. The response was not what I expected as she snapped back, “I had the baby three months ago!” Hasty congratulations stumbled from my mouth and our very brief meeting came to an abrupt end. I quickly walked the walk of shame back to my car, looking over my shoulder for any flying objects aimed in my direction.
Okay, I’m sure something like this has happened to someone, somewhere! I can’t be the only one on this planet who’s found themselves in a similar position. Let’s get real here, for any woman who is carrying a child, a few pounds here and there are always met with a bit of approval, after all, they’re eating for two and that weight gain goes along with the nine month production time involved; it’s generally well accepted…until after the baby arrives. Then, the focus turns to the new mom losing that baby weight and getting back to her pre-baby norm. Unfortunately, someone like me comes along with a seemingly hurtful remark made after a totally honest observance! Trust me…it was very honest. Very!
I carry a bit of guilt to this very day for that incident. And a few more which I won’t get into because what was involved I’ve probably forgotten about. Or, the awkward facts are none of anyone’s business.
From Mama Kat’s Writer’s Workshop…
Write about a moment you realized you were wrong.
