Happiness is a Choice

It’s true, what you focus on, is what you get. For some people not only is the glass half full, but SOMEONE is to blame for it!

This is a wonderful little neighborhood: Some great amateur gardeners, and a plethora of dog walkers invite conversations. We may not remember all the names, but we sure enjoy all the critters.

Many months ago, someone brought the house across the street, and we all were hopeful as the house had been vacant a long time. However, all attempts at conversation with them fell flat, even with their contractors. For example: They were unloading lumber and tools, and so were we…an obvious conversation opportunity, but nada, not ever. Even the mailman couldn’t get a hello. So sad.

Our dumpster sits in the front part of the parking lot and it had taken quite a beating over the winter, plus it was tapped a few times by the garbage truck drivers, so the gates didn’t always close properly. A new dumpster enclosure was ordered, but until it was installed, I used bungee cords to prop the gates open.

Apparently this highly irritated our grumpy new neighbor.

Rude Dude: As I was working outside he came over and demanded if I was the manager.

Me thinking: Of course you know that. Who else do you see dragging out recyclables, unloading massive Home Depot building supplies (doors, windows, lumber, etc.), and working in the lot with contractors?

Me speaking: “Yes, I am.”

Rude Dude: Irritated, as the view of our dumpster while drinking his morning coffee on his porch, disgusted him.

Me thinking: You and I live 100 yards from the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by gorgeous roses, sunflowers, lavender and happy beach-goers, and all you focus on is this dumpster? Get a grip!

Rude Dude: Gave me an ultimatum. He would not complain to the township if I fixed it by a certain date!

He was trying to intimidate me?! Get over thyself! He didn't even state his name!

Me asked: “Sir, my name is ____, what is yours?”

Rude Dude: He answered.

Me: “I’ll pass the message on to my boss.” And walked away.

He has also corrected some women tenants to close the gates: Misogynist idiot, you don't speak to the male tenants like that!

The dumpster has been replaced with nice shiny gates, however, I have been known some mornings, to leave both gates wide open as I give a world-class cleaning to the enclosure. He and his buddies then stand on their porch, hands on hips, clutching their coffee cups while glaring at me.

It doesn’t make me work faster.