In the Philippines, living with our parents is a norm. I never imagined that one day, I would find myself living in a different city, away from them, for work.
To save money, I had to share a flat with other people but I forgot to prepare myself for a few adjustments.
Many of us like the idea of loving people. We often hear reminders such as “Treat people with kindness,” “Do good unto others,” and “Love others as you love yourself.” But what happens when other people’s personalities challenge us, their habits irritate us, or their way of handling things is different from ours?
Do we try to understand where they are coming from or are we quick to label them as difficult or wrong? Do we call them out for their flaws, even though our ways might not be as right as we think? Or do we take the opportunity to stretch our understanding and treat them with grace?
Looking back, I wouldn’t say that I never disagreed or established boundaries. But living with those two girls helped me learn how to coexist with respect and appreciate the opportunity to experience life differently.