I love this quote. “In life, you will realize there is a role for everyone you meet. Some will test you, some will use you, some will love you, and some with teach you. But the ones who are truly important are the ones who bring out the best in you. They are the rare and amazing people who remind you why it’s worth it.”
Those who have tested me may have been the hardest to deal with, even though their testing has been a gift – urging me on to bigger and better things. Or, conversely, trying to make me feel small and inadequate – a lesson in either case.
I can certainly bring to mind people who I have felt used by, and even their presence has given me opportunity to look at what my role was in the dynamic. Did I rescue? Did I fail to set boundaries? Was I naive?
Many have loved and love me now. Gratitude to them all.
And the teachers – some of my favourites! From the fuzzy angora cardigan of my kindergarten teacher to the aikido master and thirty-year mentor, Dr. Richard Strozzi-Heckler. With many in between. Some without the designation of “teacher.” They include random people I’ve met along the way who have challenged my assumptions and beliefs. Like the server who sees my tiredness, enquires carefully “how are you, tough day?” and makes an extra effort with my order. This is the man who I thanked at the time, whose name I noted, about whom I submitted a glowing letter to head office (suitably acknowledged, with the promise of a free meal!) A small interaction, yet a great reminder to really take time and care with everyone.
And then there are those truly important ones, often therapists and coaches, for they have revealed possibilities I could’t see, believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself, encouraged and cajoled. If I can bring to my clients even a fraction of what they have given to me, then I am satisfied.