I need to shake it off. I know that not everyone will like or appreciate me in this world. That’s normal, right? In my mind, I know this, but my heart doesn’t like it. It’s a sad reality; I’ll run into people who don’t like me. I’ve heard it said that people are fickle. One day, they’ll name a street after you and the next, they’ll chase you down that same street. They are sending mixed signals. As I’ve grown older, it’s become easier to accept, laugh about, and shake it off.
I’ve lived as a foreigner in different countries for most of my life. In every place, there have been wonderful people who have embraced me and my family. Also, there have been those who haven’t been so friendly or accepting. And I find it hard when this happens. Now, I accept this unfortunate reality. I hope that for those who don’t like me, my presence will at least be tolerated.
Inevitably, the sensitive one
I don’t know if you have ever done a personality test. A new one appears on the horizon every decade or so, and inevitably I will take the newest test to see where I might fit in. Without fail, I end up on the sensitive side of the spectrum. My favorite one of these tests has been the Enneagram (if you’re interested and follow the Enneagram, I’m a 2w1).
Rejection stings, but it doesn’t have to lead me like a person leads a horse with a bit and bridle. Nowadays, I’m pretty comfortable in my 2w1 skin. Some of that comes from learning more about myself. But I think some of being more comfortable comes with the blessing of age. While I don’t like some of the gray hairs I’m seeing, I do like the perspective age has given me. It’s becoming easier to shake it off.
Lesson learned? Shake it off
I read this morning that Paul faced this same fickleness of humanity in Lystra. In Acts 14, the people initially loved his message and miracles (see verses 8–18). The people wanted to worship him as a god. But, in the next verses (see verses 19–20), the same people stoned him and left him thinking he was dead. However, he got up and went on to the next city.
Lesson learned? You need to get up and shake it off. People are fickle, but God remains the same. That’s one of the many reasons I love Him. He’s reliable and unshakable. He loves me no matter what and won’t send mixed signals.
Recommended reading: The Road Back to You is a practical introduction to the Enneagram that helps us make sense of mixed signals, both in ourselves and in others. It gives language to our motivations and reactions, inviting greater self-awareness, grace, and healthier relationships as we grow.
