Do you ever notice how kind we can be to a complete stranger, or someone we barely know, and then turn around and be unkind to our partner, and our closest family members?

It’s an interesting observation, but there is a tendency to be nice to those we barely know.  Maybe it’s the years of “training” on how to be polite.  For some, it may be a sort of “act” that shows how nice a person they are.  For others, it’s easier to be kind to someone they do not know, for they have no history with them.

Now, we want to continue to be kind to strangers and others that we do not know.  That is a sign of growth and “oneness” in the world.  However, we sometimes might find it difficult to make that effort with our own mate, siblings, children, and closest friends.  When we get to know one another so well in a relationship, our “true selves” appear.  The mask that we wear in public – for those strangers, is removed and we see everything.

However, that is no reason not to continue to make the effort to be kind and nice to the people in our closest relationships.  That usually begins with your mate, children, and parents.    Part of the rationale for less than the kindest behavior that you offer to a stranger is because there is a sense of “security” in thinking that you all will continue the relationship.  As such, there may be a tendency to “push” it a little farther.  Unlike a stranger who will simply dismiss you if you are not kind, you may feel you have more latitude with your mate.

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When we begin to take our relationships for granted is when those relationships begin to deteriorate.  Look at your closest relationships and decide if you are taking it for granted.  It might be time to do some of the kind acts that you once did when you were “strangers.”

Written Thu, Jan 22, 2015 7:57 – 8:04 AM MST