I’m terrible at receiving compliments. Most times I just say thanks and smile like Miss Celie. Other times I feel the need to explain, justify or just return the compliment. And then—and this is the worst, there are times when I just won’t take it! I’ll actually come up with things to say to weaken a flattering remark. It's the weirdest thing ever. Here’s how the conversation goes:
Person A: Steff, you really look cute tonight.
Person B: Yeah, you’re workin’ that dress.
Me: Oh please, I could stand to lose 20 lbs. If it weren’t for Spanx, I’d be…
Why do I do that?!? Reason #1: I’m kinda shy and I don’t like a lot of attention. Reason #2 (the real reason): Compliments make me a bit uncomfortable. In some ways I feel like if I believe the “hype” of a compliment, I’ll become arrogant and shallow. Truth is, I’m not arrogant or shallow. I’m unassuming and humble. I want to stay that way forever and ever (corny, but true.)
I often wonder, will I ever get to a place where I can just accept and embrace a compliment in the spirit in which it’s intended to be? Maybe. Maybe not. Until then, I’ll just keep smiling like Miss Celie….
Person A: Steff, you really look cute tonight.
Person B: Yeah, you’re workin’ that dress.
Me: Oh please, I could stand to lose 20 lbs. If it weren’t for Spanx, I’d be…
Why do I do that?!? Reason #1: I’m kinda shy and I don’t like a lot of attention. Reason #2 (the real reason): Compliments make me a bit uncomfortable. In some ways I feel like if I believe the “hype” of a compliment, I’ll become arrogant and shallow. Truth is, I’m not arrogant or shallow. I’m unassuming and humble. I want to stay that way forever and ever (corny, but true.)
I often wonder, will I ever get to a place where I can just accept and embrace a compliment in the spirit in which it’s intended to be? Maybe. Maybe not. Until then, I’ll just keep smiling like Miss Celie….
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| Miss Celie from The Color Purple |
