Wisdom Wednesday: Mind Your Own Business

Have you ever regretted getting involved in someone else’s argument and wished you had minded your own business? Although sometimes it is good to act as a mediator, it is best to do so only when asked, and even then, it is sometimes wise to stay out of it. How do you know when to stay out of an argument when asked? Consider first those who are arguing. If they are generally reasonable and just seem to need another opinion, then inquire about the disagreement. If the disagreement is something that can be settled easily, then it’s probably okay to get involved. Otherwise, it’s probably best to stay out of it. The exception is if you are in authority, e.g. a parent training young children how to handle disagreements, because teaching them is your business. But sometimes, allowing your children to work out their own disagreements under your supervision as part of the training is also best. The point, though, is not to invite trouble.

“When you invite trouble, it’s usually quick to accept.” —H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

“Who is always meddling into other men’s affairs, leads a dangerous life.” —Spanish proverb

“When you live in reaction, you give your power away. Then you get to experience what you gave your power to.” —N. Smith

“Don’t get your knickers in a knot. Nothing is solved and it just makes you walk funny.” —Kathryn Carpenter

“It is easier to keep out of a quarrel than to get out of one.” —Latin proverb

“The go-between wears out a thousand sandals.” —Japanese proverb

“Meddle not in the affairs of dragons, for you are crunchy and taste good with ketchup!” —Unknown paraphrase of a J.R.R. Tolkien quote

 

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