I think intelligent men tend to be more diplomatic. As for the females, once we survive giving birth, raising kids and menopause.....it doesn't take much to push us over the edge.
@Peter Renfro Well! First, whether you agree with lottery mechanics of operation or do not, your position is hardly worth delving into as a "player" or abstainer, no? Second, your second paragraph appears convoluted while at the same time divergent, like a worm being stretched in two directions. This may seem so to me because I suffer bullshit to any extent. Frank
Combative could be under the heading of negativity who needs that when you are older. If it was present in a work situation you could be stuck with it. In retirement you can avoid it.
That is why I get up at 3:30 in the morning. I can enjoy a part of my day before I pretend I'm not home so my retired neighbor won't come over and start griping and whining about the whole world. I totally understand why her kids avoid her.....as well as all the other neighbors. I have never known someone so unhappy with everything.
"You gotta know when to hold'em, know when to fold'em, know when to walk away, and know when to run."
@Bess Barber - what a situation to be in with your neighbour - feel for you We do a lot of 'ducking and diving' too
You may can relate to this, I used to know a man Bob that complained the lake was to WET to fish on a clear beautiful day when he was asked to go nothing that came out of him was ever positive all negative.
How do you deal with these people? In real life? 1. Combative people Don't remember any, not even when I was working. There must have been some, but since I don't enjoy arguing, probably they left me alone, so I don't remember them. 2. Negative people I've known a handful. I think a lot of it is just habit. Negativity can be contagious in a group. There are a lot worse things. 3. Pot stirrers I first became aware of pot stirrers only online. They must have been present in real life, but I was probably too naive to get it... Most online are harmless, imo. . A few are subtle and can cause major divisiveness in a group. I call them trolls. Try to ignore them. All of these seem to be present in larger proportions online, and you can't escape them. I think the internet attracts them, because there is no accountability. Why do you think some people are prone to be combative? My guess ... Maybe it is learned very early on and is linked to competition for attention. Maybe parents who let their kids be kids, do their own thing, and don't interfere too much, are the best kind. Maybe the kids learn to get along with each other.
Had an otherwise seemingly nice individual totally come unhinged after challenging combative therapy's ability to affect her. Now I'm feelin' kinda bad, shoulda handled that differently. They may only be words... but certain ones weigh heavy on some people.
All up in Jeri’s Grill In the north-side of Chicago at 4357 N Western on the corner of Montrose across from Wells Park is a diner which lights a fire in the darkest recesses of my memory striking right through to my core. At Jeri’s Grill thrashes a tall tattooed line cook slinging her spatula as if she was in the rodeo. Dodging the meek as she cussed across the counter arched like a cat ready to pounce balancing food on the plate in her hand. The just as tall but a little bit wider customer whispered something… probably his order. This place is for real, and a riot to watch, even the waitress wears her memories close to her heart. It’s an old neighborhood in the last throws of transition with this 24/7 visage from the past and it shows. Young and old and more of the latter were doled out respect as if it was something to be hoarded. Tiptoe or you just might wind up at the brunt for a small transgression like when they playfully overreact at the drop of a fork. That rodeo line cook announces… or rather yells “No more eggs!!!” and with a glance she high stepped it to the pantry for more. I think she meant it 'cause she said it with a smile. Then she’s back in the show with a couple at the counter directly across from the grill. He must’ve spilled coffee because we could feel those curses ring out like dusty spurs. Still not as brutal as the rollicking banter amongst the three at our table. Every so often distracted as the painted ladies whirled in a blur of activity, their busser and dishwasher doing double on the floor. We had to dodge friendly fire but here everyone gets an extra serving of sass. If you ever wind up in my old neighborhood it may be worth a visit. There’s lots of friendly faces and a good natured assult on the senses which can make you question why you haven't tormented yourself with this kind of fun!