My title is from the Stealers Wheel song "Stuck in the Middle with You." Why? Because that's where I'm at.
I'm currently stuck in the middle of an argument. Not on purpose, of course, but all the same I am. Now I won't mash out all the details to the internet, but I will give some helpful tips to any in this type of situation; whether they are the arguers or the one stuck in the middle.
- If you're in an argument, leave others out of it. Period. Don't purposely talk about the argument loudly in front of the other participant or name call your opponent to other people. Sure, talk about it, but be respectful and don't make the person you're talking feel ashamed, guilty, mad, etc. The other person should not be brought down because you're too angry at your opponent to care.
-If you're in an argument with some one you see constantly and your relationship with them effects others dramatically (i.e. your fighting with your S.O., then your children or mutual friends will be effected), keep it between the two of you. Nothing hurts worse then a child having to choose sides in an argument or a mutual friend having to do the same. It will hurt even worse if they choose the opponent's side.
-If you're "stuck in the middle", ignore them. If they valued your relationship or your mental health, they would not put you into the stressful situation of choosing between people or even just seeing the people who you probably deeply about separate from each other. Chances are these are people you see on a regular basis together. So yes, I know from a fact that it does hurt to have to divide your time between them.
-If you're the arguers, please for the love of almighty jujubes, remain civil. Don't pull that "If they don't apologize, I'll never talk to them again crap". Chances are they won't apologize and you'll have lost two, if not more, friendships: your opponent and the person you stuck in the middle. Let's face it, you're an adult, be mature.
In the end (and this goes for every body and any body): Don't be Monica Conyers. Leave your personal problems behind while with other friends and keep the arguments to yourself.
Grow up, be mature, be respectful.
Comments (3)
B-b-b-but... I always end up RIGHT!
Hahaha... not.
= )
You do have the right way about it. Practicing it, on the other hand, takes a lot of effort.
=P
RYC: Thank you. ^_^ Would you record yourself trying it?? It'll be fun.
Yeah, you notice I never said I practiced what I preached. It is a lot of effort and a lot of times in that situation, I don't even think about doing that.
Also, sure, I'll record myself trying to do it... but it probably won't be up until later this week. I've got to manage to get through some papers and midterms first. :)
In some cases, people can't help but be caught in the crossfire...
When you and another person can't stand each other's presence, it causes a strain on the mutuals, and they eventually pick a side; not because they want to, but because they have to.