A Lesson from the Farm Stand

Last week, I was driving home from a training session I provided for a small business in Ithaca, New York. On my way back, I stopped at a charming farm stand. It was one of those cool shops filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, local artisan items like candles, and yard decorations. You know, the kind of place that adds joy to your travels if you’re like me.

As I wandered around the store, I picked up some beautiful tomatoes, fresh cucumbers, squash, apricots, apples, and even fresh eggs. Everything was sourced from local farmers, and I couldn’t wait to enjoy these fresh, delicious items.

Then, I saw some big, delicious-looking muffins and thought, "My husband would love one of those." So, I picked one up and headed to the cashier. The woman who owned the shop came over and asked if I found everything I needed. She seemed nice at first, but when I said I’d be paying by card, her demeanor changed.

The Credit Card Conversation

Here’s the thing—I use credit cards for the points. I love the rewards we get, especially our Disney Chase Card points, which we use for our Disney vacations. So, I asked if there was a discount for using cash. She responded sharply, saying, “No, but of course, I prefer that you use cash because credit card fees are ridiculous.”

She went on a tangent about how high credit card rates had risen during the Fourth of July holiday and how New York State laws made it difficult for small business owners. She was clearly frustrated and angry.

I tried to explain that I understood credit card fees because I run my own business, but she wasn’t interested in hearing that. She was so caught up in her negativity and bitterness that it affected my entire shopping experience.

Changing My Perspective

As I left the store, I was angry. I had gone in feeling happy and excited but left feeling upset. I started thinking about how I would use this story from the stage someday to talk about dealing with negativity. By the time I got home, my perspective had shifted.

This woman was bitter, angry, and scared. She felt out of control and disrespected by the state’s laws. She just wanted to feel respected, loved, and in control. Her negativity was a cry for help.

A Plan to Spread Positivity

Instead of writing her off, I decided I would stop there again, but next time, I would bring flowers and a card of encouragement. I want to help her feel respected and offer a solution. Sometimes, people just need to feel loved and valued.

When dealing with negative people, remember that their negativity often stems from feeling out of control, disrespected, and unloved. Instead of making the story against them, make the story for them. Leave people better than you found them. Offer solutions, show them love and respect, and help them feel in control.

A Challenge for You

My challenge for you today is to leave people better than you found them. If you find them without a smile, give them one. If you find them with a smile, leave them with a bigger one. Listen to them and understand that negativity is often a disguised cry for help.

Your journal prompt today is: How can I make the world better for others?

Always remember, I believe in you, and I’m your biggest fan. Let’s make the world a better place together.

Love, Carrie