This thread is a keeper for me...There's so many excellent thoughts, experiences and suggestions. I do ponder things incessantly... I've been working on the strengths of that characteristic while letting go of the weaknesses of it
Best, I read your words earlier and tried to implement that today...Seeing the need and focusing prayer in that direction. (Funny, a conversation came up today about a unique co-worker who saves money by not showering and air cleaning his clothes...I thought of your first example!)
Givelove, Your thoughts really are inspiring and I will start practicing the metta part...what a wonderful thought.
Thank you all too for letting me know that it is okay to feel that gut "creeps" and to listen to it while at the same time working on seeing the pain beyond the personality. When I do so, I can feel more compassion for his situation...Such a negative person really has no one and from what I understand, he has alienated his family too. That is sad.