One of the worst mistakes I have made is to accept poor treatment from others as retribution for my poor decisions.
I figured that I deserved to be disrespected and humiliated as payback for my sins. I felt payback was necessary for healing and reconciliation. I justified it as necessary to help me make better decisions going forward. But I was wrong.
People do not need much of a nudge to treat you poorly. They do because you accept it – willingly or unwillingly.
I met people that cracked my iron clad theory of cause and effect. They treated me with respect no matter the circumstance. Their respect for me was not built on my actions, but on their values. I felt undeserving and I let them go. I have paid dearly for letting go of those people. Luckily, I have a second chance.
I choose to treat people with respect no matter what they bring to the table. I want to be that person, not just for what it will bring to others, but for what it will bring to me. I want to be that person and never let that person go.
– Osasu Oviawe