As a child, I was probably most impressionable at ages 4-6. I took everything my "elders" offered at face value and as truth. I wasn't jaded enough to understand about lies and manipulation, so I believed what was offered because they said it was truth. For the most part, I think I turned out as a well-adjusted, sane individual and many of the things I was taught when I was that age have proven very useful throughout my life.
Currently though, I'm at odds with The Golden Rule. You know......do unto others as you would have them do unto you. I've tried my best to do this for the better part of four decades, but I'm wondering when the others will start treating me as I've treated them??? I know that isn't why one practices The Golden Rule, but I think it's fair to wonder when I'll get a return on my investment? Honestly, I know the answer: NEVER.
As a result of being so devoted to this tenet, I seem to attract those who have already frustrated the rest of the population into rescinding their friendship with them. Time and again, when I've been trampled on, I remember that lovely Golden Rule and I treat them the way I want to be treated. Well, NO MORE. Instead, when I am treated in a manner contrary to how I treat others, that person will be treated with the Inverse Golden Rule. I will assume that how they're treating me is how they would like to be treated.
After all, I was told when I was 6 that turn about is fair play.
