Self Analysis, Trial By Fire

[Jake]

This subject is an off shoot from Candyman's OP regarding rude awakenings upon arrival to the Philippines. I am in no way, an expert in psychology -- hell most of the time, I can't even explain my own behavior. Butwhen it comes to being out in public, how do I force myself to be kind and courteous, even to those that areobvious butt-holes? In this case, you're coming off from a long 16+hour flight, from an air conditioned planeto a hot and sweaty environment. Do we already broadcast our body language by having a bad attitude? And then comes a stone face customs and immigration officer that could spot you a mile away ...... how doesone bite the bullet and continue to smile in spite of his/her attitude with a badge of authority? It's like tryingnot to fart but comes out lumpy anyway. In the end, I'm the one smelling like chit with a round trip air farewasted because I was denied entry. I guess each person has their own ways to fight the demons from within. To be honest with you guys, I don'tknow if I could keep my emotions in check these days. Old age does not necessarily come with more patienceand understanding. I wrote this for those who continue to have a chip on their shoulder or first time visitors tothe Philippines. Trying to smell like a rose -- Jake

Edited December 9, 2011 by JAKE
spell check

[Candyman]

I understand you exactly Jake ! I never have, and never will suffer fools graciously ! I have a very low tolerance of fools and idiots wherever they may be, and I have always been that way ! If anything is wrong, and patently so, I speak my mind in no uncertain terms, where ever this may be ! That is just my nature, and it takes an enormous amount of self control, to keep my temper in check. In most cases this is OK, and I can just walk away from it with no problems, but on some occasions, particularly on the political level, if you are too outspoken, no matter how right you are, the despots in power will pull out all stops to crucify you, for even the slightest hint, that you do not bow down to their doctrines ! I learnt this the hard way, and cost me more money, stress, and health problems than you could ever believe !It does not get any easier, and I too, have less patience than I once had, but I try not to let it worry me, because after all, I have no power to change the situation, and am just content, to utter the chant : "Too many arseholes and not enough bullets !"