Notes by La'Rue

I don’t get mad, nor do I get even. Instead of allowing things to fester, and worry about how to “get back”, I just sit back and watch as things unfolds. Grace taught me that! As I continue to grow, I now understand that everything nor everyone, deserves a rebuttal, let alone response. It doesn’t matter how much my character is attacked, or the extent to which I’m ostracized, because nothing anyone says or do, can change how I feel about me. One of my mentees allows everything to get to her, and when I say everything, I mean it! It doesn’t matter how large or miniscule the lie or offense is, she eventually becomes it, by continuously entertaining it. “I’m not you,” she says to me, “So, I’m not going to sit back and allow someone to speak negatively about me when I know the truth.”

“One thing I’ve learned several years ago, is when you know who you are, no one can tell you who you aren’t! That’s how I’m able to sit back and allow the negative talk, because I do know the truth,” was my response. “No matter how tough the talk, slander, or hate gets, move on, and do it with grace. You don’t have to match their energy, but you can choose not to give them yours. Besides, it’s not worth it,” I continued. Considering that she’s still pretty young, and very much has the “attitude of revenge,” I’m not sure if she is receptive to my advice or will choose to be the better person. Who knows, only time will tell. However, what I do know is this, “When you know better, you do better,” and that’s how I’ve become a better person.

Until next time my NOTE takers!

Deetra La’Rue