When A Person Shows You Who They Are....Believe Them

In life, there are countless lessons to be learned. Some are small, while others have a profound impact on our lives. And if I were to compile a list of the most important lessons I've learned, there is one that stands out above all others. It's a lesson that took me a while to fully grasp, but now that I have, it has become a guiding principle in my interactions with others.

I first encountered this lesson in my twenties, during a conversation with the legendary Maya Angelou. We were discussing life and various other topics as part of a book club selection. And it was during this intimate gathering, dressed in our pajamas, that Maya shared with me one of her favorite life lessons. This lesson has since become one of the most valuable pieces of wisdom I've ever received.

The Power of Believing Actions

The lesson Maya imparted on me was simple yet profound: when people show you who they are, believe them. It's a concept that may seem obvious, but in reality, many of us struggle to fully embrace it. We often find ourselves making excuses for others or dismissing their actions, hoping that they will change or that we have misunderstood them. But Maya's words reminded me that individuals know themselves better than anyone else does. If someone tells you they are selfish, unkind, or any other negative trait, believe them.

The Importance of Trusting Our Instincts

As Maya pointed out, we often find ourselves in situations where we think we know someone's true nature, only to be proven wrong. We question our judgment, thinking that perhaps we were mistaken. But Maya's wisdom taught me that our initial instincts are often correct. We don't need multiple instances to validate our perceptions of others. If someone shows you who they are once, trust that instinct.

The Consequences of Ignoring Red Flags

Maya's lesson resonated with me as I reflected on past relationships that had turned sour due to my own choices. I realized that I had ignored the warning signs, hoping for change or making excuses for the other person's behavior. I remembered waiting by the window, neglecting my own needs, for someone who had shown me time and time again that they couldn't be relied upon. Maya's words reminded me that their actions were clear indicators of their true character. By ignoring those red flags, I had only prolonged my own suffering.

Embracing the Lesson

So why do we struggle to believe people's actions? Maya's voice echoed in my mind, asking why we need to be shown something repeatedly before we accept it as truth. Her words challenged me to break free from this cycle of misplaced trust. From that moment on, I made a conscious effort to believe people when they showed me who they were, without the need for further confirmation.

Conclusion

Maya Angelou's invaluable lesson has forever changed the way I approach relationships and interactions with others. It has taught me to trust my instincts, to embrace the truth that is presented to me, and to avoid unnecessary pain and disappointment. By believing people's actions the first time, we can save ourselves from heartache and surround ourselves with individuals who are trustworthy and genuine.

So the next time someone reveals their true nature to you, remember Maya's words: believe them. Don't wait for the 29th time to validate what you already know. Trust your instincts, and let this lesson guide you towards healthier and more fulfilling relationships.