Resolution Number One

Sometimes I wonder how much difference there is between how others perceive you and how you view yourself.  I'm sure all of us have been in a situation where we feel we've been misunderstood or not left the lasting impression we would like.  I'm unfortunately always in danger of giving out that accidental death stare.  I was told it would make any stranger run in the opposite direction but I didn't quite believe it until I saw it for myself on a home video.  And then I didn't want to be friends with me either.  It was the kind of glance you would wish on Stalin not an innocent stranger.

Yes, my frightening facial expressions are my cross to bear.  But I'm sure you've got one too.  Whether it's exuding that accidental air of arrogance, nervously telling appalling jokes or not saying anything at all it's never plain sailing when we first meet new people.  I once met a guy who used to touch his face every time he spoke to me.  Not only was it immensely distracting but I struggled to maintain a conversation without wanting to touch my own face too.  Weird.  He's now a friend and the face-touching is a thing of the past.  Just as he now laughs when I stare.  We worked through it.  

And I believe I've found resolution number one of 2012: reserve your judgement.  Not forever, just until a later date.  Because we've all got our quirks.  Our funny twitches that make us unique.  And at first glance, it might not look particularly appealing.  But stick around and let them prove you wrong.  Because friendships are sometimes found in the strangest places.  People may just surprise you.