Two Kinds of People

I've decided there are two kinds of people: those who read self help books and those who don't.  I am one of the former.  I believe that I am a work in progress.  I can be improved upon.  There is a better self who is kinder, thinner, more productive, wiser, etc.  The self I am is sadly lacking, but there is hope if one is willing to work hard to change.   Ah.  The Rub.

I might note that my wish to improve myself does not end at the boundary of me.  I also think that I can improve those around me.  Having read all those self help books has given me a font of knowledge that I am happy to share.  Just ask.   Or wait.  I'm sure I will point out some way you can improve, if you will just listen and follow my advice.

My former husband once said to me that he didn't think that people could change, that he certainly couldn't.  He was right.  He hasn't changed much over the years, except that he shaved his mustache and his head.  He is the other sort of person.  He doesn't read self help books.

 I believe people can change.  It is hard, but you can change.  I know that part of the reason I feel this way is because I had a father who was only too happy to point out all the ways I could improve.  As I noted, I internalized that trait.  It is one of the things I try hard to change.  So, thanks, Dad for pointing out that change is possible.  See, I did change.  I just realized that his criticism wasn't all bad. It gave me optimism and hope along with all the self doubt and lousy self image.