Toxic Relief

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Lifestyle

We were at the airport and I was waiting for Flo. Nearby on both sides of me were two couples —clearly each a husband and wife.
And both were caught up in an argument. I moved away from one only to find the other engaged in almost identical banter.
The toxicity was painful – beyond uncomfortable. I could feel it permeating my skin and had to get away.
I walked away — far enough away that when Flo returned to where she had left me, I was not to be found and had to call out to her across the way.
I’ve certainly witnessed arguments before but never have I felt the need to protect myself from the toxic vibes.

Comments

Submitted by MarilynGenoa on Wed, 12/12/2018 - 22:27

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Marilyn Genoa

It is a shame that the wonderful vibes you and Flo give off together could not have helped overcome their dissension.
Kelly Welles

I say more prayers than the Pope when I see toxic situations. Whether I encounter disharmony or see
neglected children, panhandlers or addicts on the street. You were wise.
Daniel Schwartz

Toxic situations are easily caught. Best to move away if your internal clock guides you to.
Jane Beddall

It says a lot if these folks are having such difficult arguments in a public place (though the stress many feel when travelling can be substantial.) It would be hard to see an upside to staying within earshot if you found them hard to endure. (Since I am an oddball who is fascinated by conflict and how to handle it, I might have been surreptitiously observing the scene -- or, if I had had enough fascination for one day, I might have moved away in a flash!)

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