The Pink Herald

Which me will you get? It’s a valid question. There are some people who seem to have the same consistent personality. They can remain calm, smiling, and take everything in stride. On the flip side, there are people who react to everything in an over-the-top manner.

Me? It depends on who you are as to which me you will get.

For my close friends and family, they get a side most people aren’t privileged to see. I don’t let my guard down for many people. I still remain guarded with my those closest to me, but I laugh and can just be me with them. They aren’t offended at the drop of a hat and accept me for me.

If you work with me, I’ve been told I’m mean. Perhaps I am at times. I would like to think those who label me as mean have seen my direct side. The side that has repeatedly told them the same things over an over and I am done coddling them when I have to tell them, again, a procedure or remind them to do something related to their job.

If your a medical professional (and that term is debatable for many in that industry), you get one of two versions; either a person struggling with her medical conditions and can’t make eye contact or a person who has had quite enough from a system which ignores those in need and blames said system for their failed attempts at clear communication or assistance. I tend to be extremely direct in a medical setting. There is no advocate for me, but me. I will be heard. I am not there to be your friend. I don’t want to exchange pleasantries due to my medical anxiety. I want in, my questions answered, and I want out. I expect efficiency and have little tolerance for the ever-ending excuses made.

General people I randomly meet probably won’t get a lot of interaction with me. I am guarded, and for good reason, but that’s for another time. I am courteous to begin with. I do match energy, so should a stranger have a negative experience with me, they would have prompted my responses based on their own reactions.

Lastly, if we meet in the presence of your dog, you will receive a genuine smile from me. I am a bit more engaging and pups (of all ages) want to be my friend. I’ve seen dogs drag their owners to say “hi” to me while I’m sitting outside a shop enjoying a cup of coffee. I’m just that person. Dogs are my soul people and if you don’t understand that meaning, we would probably never be close friends.

I admit, I am direct. I rarely sugar-coat what I have to say and I shouldn’t have to. If someone if offended at my communication skills, then it’s their problem. Too many people walk on eggshells these days because it’s possible someone might not like what they have to say and then claim their feelings are hurt. It’s ok to say “no”, disagree with someone, or not want to be friends or even interact with them.

I am who I am. Which me you see depends on you.