Moving On

I believe in resolving differences, in getting painful incidents out of the way, clearing up misunderstandings and moving on. I have learned that the pain of the initial conversation is much less than carrying the burden of a difficult relationship for days or even months. Isn't that the way it happens?

I have also learned that if, after my initial, "What you have done or said is causing me pain", I receive a response of, "Well, you have hurt me too", that the best course of action is to remain quiet. This gives the other the opportunity to express their own unvoiced pain and let go of their burden. Often the compassion I find in listening to their pain is impetus enough to let go of my own.