Random Thoughts - Indulge Me

Father LeSance wrote a bit about Indulgence that interested me. He quoted quite a bit from "The Art of Being Happy" by Russell. The book is too old for it to be Russell Crowe and the tone doesn't quite fit Nipsey Russell, so I have no clue who Russell is but I like what he says.

Be indulgent...it is necessary for others, and it is necessary for your own sake. Forget the little troubles that others may cause you.

Good advice. Much like "don't argue over biscuits" (Mary Oliver). If you are going to argue, argue about something that matters.

The mysterious Russell continues.

Let us take heed of the habits, tastes, and even the little hobbies of those around us, in order not to cross them in anythings, especially our superiors and our kinsfolk. There are a thousand minute details of manner and conduct, insignificant in themselves no doubt, but to which some, especially old people and nervous people, attach so much importance that a slight negligence with regard to one of these little points puts them in bad humor for a whole day.

That can be taken a couple of ways. He's talking about trying to get along with people by not doing things that bother them, but it can also be taken as advice to thicken your skin and don't get upset over little things that people don't even realize are annoying you.

So, be indulgent of others and toward yourself.