I
am just wondering if I was introduced to myself, would I like me? How would the
conversation begin and under what circumstances would the two of me find
ourselves in this awkward predicament?
Well,
since this is more than a possibility verging on an eventual probability, I
must get prepared.
As
with all my “out there” thoughts, this scenario was planted in my brain by way
of a series of comments regarding a person who looks like me enough to be my twin
brother. This man works in the hospital
where I volunteer. The physical traits
are unmistakably me with a five o’clock shadow.
We’ve
met, have not conversed, but just that uncomfortable face to face introduction which
supports the theory of evolution. There
must be a missing limb on the family tree because it’s uncanny how much we
mirror the outside self.
Not
wanting to pry or really care enough to begin a conversation, we occasionally
pass ourselves in the hallway and with the exchange of that same familiar grin,
go on about our business.
Now,
that it is confirmed that I do exist in multiplicity, I need to adjust my inner
self to present the best of me to all I meet, or pass by, or gaze at; etc.
The
challenge being which side of my multi-faceted me shall I present to John Q.
Public?
Having
graduated from a six-week summer course on etiquette somewhere in my preteen
years, I already practice appropriate posture (especially if descending a
staircase), know when to extend my RIGHT hand and can engage in the
howdoyoudo’s in several languages.
That’s
all well-intentioned if I were to find myself in a formal social setting;
but,
what about the casual impromptu occasion? Taking cues from a complete stranger
has the potential of a neon danger sign looming overhead.
Say
for instance, meeting my son's future girlfriend. It’s well known that sons generally choose
partners with Mom’s endearing qualities.
But which qualities will I recognize in this mini-me? Will I be equally impressed or quickly
dissolve the budding romance and run for the nearest exit?
How
to gage which me to face the world, on a daily basis, is my constant
challenge. I can be very well-rehearsed
in front of my bathroom mirror (it is full length, as I like to practice my
entire body language). Stepping outside and maintaining self- confidence is not
for the weak of spirit or stomach, ya da
ya da. It’s a skill honed over decades and I admit, that I’m not the least bit
shy. I’ll talk to anyone. It’s not vanity to do so, it’s generosity of
heart.
You
know when you “connect” with people. That eleven-second rule (the time it takes to
make a first impression) is more than ample when you realize
the
existence of commonality. You don’t have to ponder which you to share. It just happens. Or does it?
Maybe
the other embodiment of you has just met the original. Do you like him or
her? Is there a reason to share a part of
yourself? Do you appreciate the
qualities which form a bridge from stranger to a friend?
Is
this a human condition, this multiple me syndrome? Do my dogs or cats or aquarium freshwater
fish have the potential to recognize in others that which exists internally? I
vote yes.
It’s
absolutely irrefutable that the me I give out to the universe will attract and
simultaneously repel like energies.
Positive will engage positive, negative will keep trying and opposites
will attract and throw the whole equation off-center.
So
with this discussion begun, I have choices to make. But first, I need to check
my day timer to determine the best me for the job of getting on with my
day….the possibilities are endless.
