I love the diversity of personalities that make up a big family, and life, for that matter. #2 is much more like his Mother than he is
me. This morning I mentioned off-handedly that I’d ordered something online from China. A business expense. A look of slight alarm passed over his face. I preemptively explained that I’d done some research on this particular item, the seller, and was reasonably sure it would work out.
He replied with great gravity, “What do you think the chances are you’ll be disappointed?” Ha! What a great question! I got a good laugh at that and said, “Well, I guess I would say about 30%, although it’d be tough to justify that. I’m quite a bit more sure of being satisfied, although I would say the chances are fair that I won’t be. But I have a plan if that’s the case, so I’m not too worried about it either way”. I then briefly explained my Plan B.
He didn’t say anything. The look on his face showed his doubt. So like his Mom! So I said, “I don’t mind risks…I’m prepared for some disappointment, but also delight in achieving something, discovering something new, or learning something, or perhaps just as satisfying, proving my judgment to be accurate. That’s pride, of course, but enjoyable. I learn something, perhaps even more, from my mistakes”.
At that moment his Mother entered the room and, hearing at least some part of the discussion, said, “Yeah, but I don’t like risk…yours or mine”. Okay, so risk isn’t always fun. But this is a woman who won’t try a new dish at a restaurant for fear she won’t like it!
I’ll let you know how it works out.