Johnson 1

Lauren Johnson
Ms. Parker
Written Portfolio 3
13 November 2014
Word Count: 475
This I Believe
Nothing hurts more than a verbal backhand from a close friend.
This friend and I were sixteen when the rift arose between us. In preparation for an event,
we, and a number of other adolescents our age, gathered to read over the proceedings. When it
came time for my friend to read her portion, I excitedly exclaimed a suggestion that would, in
my eyes, improve the tone of the section. Her remark came like a slap in the face: Its not like I
hadnt thought of that before.
The lashing left me stunned. Exiting the room afterward, I burst into tears, knowing that
this marked an end to our tense relationship. Given, it had been an unnecessary suggestion, and
perhaps, if it had been another time, my reaction would not have been so severe. Her family and
mine had been on difficult terms for a long while, but, though I saw them treat others with the
same flippancy as I had been treated with in that moment, I always felt shielded from their barbs.
When they aimed them at me, it left me shocked.
I doubt that she understood the personal gravity of her sarcastic remark, or even
remembers it happened, and I cant blame her for being the way she is. But I did feel it, and this
experience has left me with a singular understanding: people are more sensitive than they let on.
Being kind is harder than it looks.

Johnson 2
I believe that gentleness is essential in living a happy life, but also know how easy it is to
be found doing the very thing to someone else that hurt you. Considering my pained experience,
it is ironic that I have caught myself in the same social crime as my friend many times. We have
been reared in a world of snarky remarks and people too afraid to express their feelings,
believing that their complaints will be met with further cruelty: if they remain quiet, bearing their
burdens, the persecution persists, but should they speak out against the injustice, they would be
called easy to offend and people would complain of having to walk on eggshells around them.
As such, it isnt a surprise that we believe our clever witticisms have no effect on others
feelings.
Kindness is achievable.
I believe that I should be careful with everyones feelings. This doesnt mean I have to
walk on eggshells, but it does mean I try to temper my bluntness, try to worry less about how
funny I am, try to hide my displeasure, try to watch my tone, and try to think through everything
I say. I believe that humor or wit at the expense of others is not worth losing my friendship with
them. If I can master that kindness, at least one load may be lifted from the shoulders of my
neighbors.