Thursday, February 7, 2008 |
11:51 - Public Service Announcement
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If you notice someone trip while walking down the sidewalk, or slip on a frozen puddle, or lose his footing on the treadmill at the gym, one of the least helpful things you can possibly say is: "Careful!"
I know you might think it makes you look concerned and thoughtful for the well-being of your fellow man; but what he hears is: My, you're lacking in basic motor skills! The reason why you just almost fell down must be that you forgot to be careful when walking! Good thing I was here to remind you, huh?
When said person is regaining his balance and righting himself, he's already well aware of his error and has taken appropriate steps to prevent it happening again. The last thing he wants to hear is a clucking, henlike voice from behind his shoulder admonishing him that he needs to be careful. Such a thing might only serve to encourage him to act more lackadaisical than he had been previously, just to spite the eyes seemingly watching his every move.
I'm just sayin', is all.
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