Life Goes Fast

Well this weekend was one of those moments for me. Only it wasn't spurred on by physical likeness, though my mother and I are very similar. No, instead it was spurred on by a thought process and the ability to slow down and think before I reacted. That is not something I am good at - nor is it something that I am often able to do. I'm a rusher, you see - One who rushes to answer or react - One who believes honesty is always best - One who often does not think of the impact my actions or thoughts will have on others until it might be too late.

This weekend my in-laws were here. They are wonderful people, really. Kind, loving, insightful, and really non-intrusive. However, my GIL was here too; nosey, gossipy, and outwardly kind, but...well...you know the kind, right? So this weekend I had to bite my tongue several times, including when she called me my hubby's ex-wife's name! That was fun! After 10 years you would think that name would be all but buried by now in family talk. Well, even though there is a good chance it was done - at the dinner table, first conversation - on purpose to ruffle some feathers, I let it slide with a simple, "Excuse me? Did I heard you wrong?" Her look said it all - she got her attention and ruffled the feathers, but I got the last hurrah.

I smiled, and walked away. No words given, no upset feelings, just a hard ball to swallow and a lesson in patience and learning. I have had my mother's moment. Though my gracious mother would have not said even the little bit I said, I am not that capable. But I was pleased to not have gotten upset and spat something I might have regretted.

Thanks, Mom, for the very hard lesson learned of keeping my big mouth shut!

Would love to hear about any mom-emulated moments that you didn't know you were capable of until they happened...