Underestimating "The Sensitivity Factor"

Sometimes, it's hard to know when you've gone too far. This is especially true for me, as my biggest (and certainly self-recognized) flaw is a lack of sensitivity. I've been working on this for literally years, but unfortunately, sensitivity doesn't operate using an on/off switch. It is spectral in nature, and while I may no longer be sitting at the very end of the spectrum, I am certainly still much closer to the end where I'd rather not be.



I recently posted something that was very offensive to someone I care about very much...like a sister. While I intended the subject to be thought-provoking and to provide a different perspective, I crossed a line. I didn't intend to do so, by any means, and was honest to God very surprised by the reaction it solicited.



Then I remembered the whole sensitivity challenge that I have, and it all came together.



The Golden Rule is a very powerful statement. The problem that I have is that, while I consider the thoughts/feelings of others before I act, I am literally doing unto others as I would have done to me, and with an inherent lack of sensitivity, this sets the bar for me at an inappropriate level. Just because I wouldn't be hurt by something if the tables were turned doesn't mean that someone else that is on another, more centrist position on the sensitivity spectrum would not be.



I'll continue to work on this unattractive personality trait, probably for the rest of my life. As an (albeit late) step in the right direction, you will notice that the two passionate posts I have written thus far are no longer available on this blog. I may never be able to reach my goal of being a centrist on sensitivity, but I most certainly won't come even close if I don't begin to walk in that direction in the first place. It's going to be a long journey for me, and I hope you all will be patient with me as I travel.

But in the meantime, I'll simply say this: I'm sorry, Kate.