Things are changing so fast that as soon as I wrap my mind around one concept there is an altercation! Still, with so much information to take in and adjustments to take on, it is hard to miss the mounting social unrest and violence.
I understand some of the reasons behind the uptick in aggression. For instance, financial loss is hard any day, and these financial losses are significant. Then there is being confined to smaller spaces, whether you are alone or living on top of others, quarantine is taking its toll.
Some of it is simply the bandwagon effect. John/Jane Doe shares a sentiment and folks jump on two-by-two. So yes, people for whatever reason are on edge. Also, panic buying of essential products e.g. food, disinfectants, and medication is still underway. This makes a simple trip to the store a potentially hazardous event.
Hopefully that will not be the case, but here are some things you can do to avoid or minimize conflict.
Conflict Avoidance
Before you leave your house, check yourself.
Wallet, keys, mask, gloves, and energy. What is your current physical or mental state? Are you sick? Yes? Turnaround, go back into the house. Send the next available healthy family member or call for assistance with a delivery. Ahhh, conflict averted. Seriously, I have seen recent headlines of fights that started with a cough.
If you are not sick, what about your energy? Are you having one of those “I wish somebody would try me” kind of days? You know the energy I’m talking about. Where you would rather not deal today. If that is where your energy is, and going out is not absolutely urgent…turnaround and go back into your house.
You might make better use of your time with a hot bath, a beverage, or good book. Again, conflict averted. If you are all good both physically and mentally proceed to the store.
Handling Conflict
A loved one recounted a trip to the store, sharing how a request for a bit more distance from a fellow customer quickly escalated. Thankfully only words were thrown back and forth but I remember thinking it was unreal. It was bothersome but not as bad Amanda Seales who was threatened with being spat on in an Orlando Target for her request, or the doctor in Louisville, Kentucky who strangled a girl who didn’t honor his. Truly disturbing.
Be mindful of your surroundings. Observe things like your distance in relation to others, approximate number of people in the vicinity, and anyone that may be agitated. Know your options should you suddenly find yourself face-to-face with aggression.
1. Create more space with your cart or by leaving.
2. Take a breath, relax your muscles.
3. Carefully choose your words and use a calm, firm voice when responding.
4. Summon for assistance from a store employee, if necessary.
Again, do not go looking to start a fight. Just be mindful and safe. This too shall pass.
Be well.
A native of Phoenix, Arizona Aundrea Sayrie is a firm believer in the power of words, faith and a strong spirit. Her greatest desire is to encourage those around her to discover and honor their truth, and to passionately live on purpose. IG @aundreasayrie.
Any views or opinions expressed in “Living on Purpose” are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Watershed Voice staff or its board of directors.
