Blowing in the Wind

Do you ever think about how you affect others? Not the big, obvious stuff like environmental impact or major family decisions. We all know that quitting a job means no income or that pushing a sibling might hurt them. Those are easy to see and understand.

But what about the smaller, everyday things? Do you ever wonder how your choice of words might change someone’s day? Or how taking your time to order at a restaurant could make someone else late getting back from lunch?

I get it—if we worried about every little thing, it would be exhausting. We can't always predict how our actions affect others. But I try to be mindful. Like, I wouldn’t rave about my amazing dinner to someone who might have skipped theirs or had a rough meal. And I wouldn’t comment on someone's paleness if I knew they were anxious about going outside.

Maybe I overthink these things, but I believe it’s important to be compassionate. Including others who feel left out isn’t a big ask. Humor can lighten tough situations, but sometimes jokes are just mean. Intentions don’t matter much if the outcome hurts someone. Accidentally stepping on a bee still kills it and messes up its role in the hive. Every little action we take has some kind of impact.

So, why am I talking about this? This week, I said something that was misunderstood, and it upset someone. I didn’t mean to, but I spoke without thinking. Even though I usually try to be careful, I slipped up. On the flip side, when people unintentionally exclude me or hurt my feelings, I often stay quiet to avoid being labeled "dramatic." It’s funny because I care so much about everything.

These moments leave me feeling drained. I cry at night and change myself to avoid getting hurt again.

I’m tired.

As I continue to tiptoe around to avoid causing pain, I wonder—do others do the same? Or am I alone in this?