In real estate, there are instances when diplomatic gestures work more effectively than aggressiveness. I learned to apply this idiom even in the most trying personal experience.
Scene Example:
Being the only parent of my children, I have the tendency to become overprotective because it is only "me" they got.
After a week at PS 101, Queens, NY, my son who was just transplanted from the Philippines for barely a month, was watching tv when I came home. His five-year old sweet and loving face looked at me with a smile but as a mother, I knew something was bothering him. He was bullied by a kid in school.
I called my doctor employer that night and told her that I would be late to handle domestic problem. That morning, I accompanied my son and his septuagenarian sitter on their way to school.
Once we got there, I told my son to whisper to me who the boy was by pointing his finger in a discreet manner. He reluctantly pointed his finger to a taller and bigger black kid ( no discrimination intended-just laying out the fact).
I approached the kid with my most friendly smile and handed my hand over to shake his. "Hello, young man. I am the mother of that child, pointing to Chad who stood like an angel by the school's fence. He is a very nice kid, you know and I think you, yourself are quite nice too. Do you mind watching out for him--for me? I think both of you will get along well. Can I count on that?
His eyes stared at me--his attention focused. Then his lips parted to show his white teeth while forming a big smile. I extended my hand back to shake his hand and asked him to come with me so I can introduce him to my son.
I ushered him to where my son was standing. They shook hands and from that day on, he became Chad's best friend.
I was not sure what approach I would use but my mission was clear and steadfast. To stop the child from bullying my son. I utilized the friendlier and civil tactic.
And it worked.
In our profession, bullies abound too. We heard about different people, different strokes. True. But generally, we can always attract bees with honey than vinegar.
Comments(5)