Accepting Me

Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Once again, I am inspired by HCDSM reader and occasional commenter David. At the rate he's going, I may never have to think of original blogging fodder again - I'll simply copy David for the duration.

He recently inspired me to write this as a result of some thoughtful snarkiness, and now he's written a follow-up piece detailing Nine Things That Will Not Make Me Judge You. I like having balance in my life. I like it so much I'm going to balance the scales here at Hot Chicks Dig Smart Men and totally steal David's idea AGAIN.

Here are Seven Things That Will Not Make Me Judge You.

1. You are grief-stricken when your beloved pet dies.

People who don't consider their pets to be part of their family typically don't understand how someone can have a deep emotional relationship with a pet. But in many ways, such relationships are the purist, most fulfilling things in this life. Being grief-stricken when they die is appropriate, and fitting.

2. You are poor.

Unlike willful ignorance, being poor isn't something people choose. If you're not convinced, go read this.

3. You have faith.

Like most atheists, I'm far too pragmatic to understand faith. Unlike many atheists, I admire those who manage a spiritual connection to this world that does not interfere with empirical reality.

4. You choose not to serve in the Armed Forces.

While my own family has a tradition of military service, there are many ways to serve your country and your fellow human beings. It's not up to me to proclaim that my preferred method of service is superior to any other.

5. You perform what is considered "menial" work.

Menial is as menial does. If you're the best waiter I've ever had, the key word there is "best," not "waiter."

6. You cry for sentimental reasons. 

Crying because something reminds of you of what's really important about being human is a sign that you might be someone I'd enjoy knowing, not the opposite.

7. You ask for help.

Not to be completely cliche, but no man is an island. Needing help occasionally does not make you weak or needy, but it does make you human. And allowing others to help you when you genuinely need it makes those who are willing to help human, too.

2 comments:

David said...

It's not stealing. It's *research*. And I take it as a compliment. :)

Maybe we can start a meme and get all of our blogging friends to write such lists!

Tom said...

Writing posts like this makes me judge you. You have been judged superior.

I judged myself when I grieved more for my Irish Setter than I did for my Dad. I should not have judged.

#6. Thank you.

If I hadn't asked for help many many years ago, I might not be here to write this. Asking taught me.