being "nice"

Some people think that they are the nicest people in the world. Few people irritate me more than that. The act so sincere and honest...but when you actually ask them a favor, they get so intent on avoiding it, even when they owe it you. Ironically, not-so-nice people are often more helpful.

One person offered to spend dinner with me...but when it came down to it, that person continued to be "busy." I'm not sure whether that meant being nice to the dozens of other friends, or just that it was only a polite gesture, completely devoid of actual intention. Sometimes it's scary that I have to give it anymore thought. In some strange way, I'm supposed to be nice by not bringing up that invitation?

I find it most disturbing how people make promises they can't or don't even intend to keep. It might feel good and unselfish to offer some help or time, but it's just going to hurt more in the end when you realize you broke a promise. As the proverb goes, "Don't make promises you can't keep."

What happened to doing nice things for people and getting them back too? A greatly beneficial synergy results from working together, but humans today seem too selfish to even consider that. (I can't say whether it has been better in the past) People seem more concerned with appearing considerate rather than being considerate, and then they wonder why everyone expects them to act that way too. Then they look at me and feel almost ashamed looking at the "incredibly nice" things I do for people on a daily basis. Who actually bothers to try and help that girl on the street having trouble with their bike? Or return the cell phone to that guy who dropped in the grass next to the bus station?

Sure, most people out there try to take advantage of you, but you can always learn to be careful and learn whom to trust. Most importantly karma does exist, and you only get what you give, even if that.