When I witness someone being stoic in the face of great difficulty, I feel their sadness. I ache for their hardship especially and particularly in the light of their gracious strength. On the contrary, when someone is whiny and victimized and verbose about their life challenges, I do not feel the same compassion. I might even feel mildly irritated and want them to buck up and stop complaining.
There is something beautiful and noble in someone who faces their share of struggle in life and doesn't let it sink them or turn them bitter. It is an art to be able to rise above and carry on in spite of whatever life may divvy up.
I accept my challenges in stride and with grace and do not whine and complain and solicit pity.
