Confused- February 5, 2011
June 5, 2011
My neighbor had always been pleasant, but suddenly he is really curt and cold. I'm assuming that I've done something to annoy him, but for the life of me I can't imagine what it is. It's so bad that I even want to move. What should I do?
I'm confused too. And when that happens it's a clue that more is going on than meets the eye. It certainly could be you, but what? It could be him, but why would he involve you in his personal issues? Something with a question mark behind it is worth pursuing. Invite him over for a coffee. Serve some tasty cookies. Let him know and feel that you have nothing against him, and tell him you'd like to apologize for whatever has hurt him. He'll tell you, or he won't, but you have acted decently. You may also find out that he actually has a life, and that that life may have some complications. Not every response to us has to do with us. Reach out to him as a friend. He may need one. Beyond these attempts, there is little more you can do. Yes, it is uncomfortable when you are treated badly and don't know why. Make sure now that you don't return his coolness and he won't know why. Pray for him. Be good to him. Teach him by your example. Put the coffee on.
