Bullies and mowing my lawn.

Today was interesting to say the least. After work I spent time with the kids and Cruz mentioned getting bullied... a kid told him he was going to beat him up. I said, what did you do, and he replied, "I ignored him". 

So we talked about bullies, interesting timing for me, as I had a rough day. So we talked, and I told him yes that is what we do, and that never let a bully make you feel bad about yourself. Mari jumps in, "We know, you always tell us that"... yes I replied and I asked why... "I don't remember" she replied. So I told them again, never let a bully make you feel bad, you should feel bad for them. They are hurting and want to make you hurt to feel better about themselves. I added, that you never return mean with mean, it gets you nowhere, it makes you a bully as well. 

Then we want home, they did trash while I mowed the lawn. Nothing calms me more after a long day than mowing the lawn. Not sure why, but it has always been very therapeutic. We work in a complex world, when projects are never finished, visions are never complete, one strategic plan gives way to another, and so many things are theoretical with no true end. 

While the lawn will need to be mowed again, tonight it is done. Tonight, I started it, I finished it, and I took a picture of it. I accomplished it. No one complained, one neighbor actually stopped me and complimented me on it (also good timing, thanks divine intervention). There are a lot of ways to mow the lawn, I have my way, others have their way. 

Today was interesting. I had a good talk with my mom and dad. Sat and chatted with my oldest. We will see where tomorrow goes. 

I couldn't have asked for more perfect timing to have a bully lesson with the kids. Glad that was put in our path today, and glad that I was reminded how important it is to be kind, to be gentle with others, and most important gentle with myself. Then my favorite poem came to mind. 

from Desiderata - Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant, they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit...

Full poem here: https://mwkworks.com/desiderata.html