Blend In or Stand Out! Give In or Walk Out!
Sometimes the beauty lies in blending in, and sometimes it lies in standing out.
We all experience different kinds of situations, and at times it is important to speak up, while at other times it is wiser to quietly follow.
But whatever we choose, we should never lose ourselves in the process.
Many things can affect us in different ways.
Sometimes people reach out for help.
Sometimes we reach out to others.
Sometimes others are needy.
Sometimes we are the ones in need.
Sometimes people are untrue.
Sometimes they get angry and may even wish to harm.
Sometimes excessive softness or politeness makes others feel entitled to walk over you.
These experiences happen all the time.
Yet the essential truth remains: no matter the situation:
Stand tall.
Do not seek to fight,
But be prepared to defend yourself if someone pulls you into the field.
When you are in need, make a commitment to return the favor or establish a fair exchange.
When honoring others’ needs, do the same, hurt no one, including yourself, and ensure fairness in every interaction.
When someone mistakes kindness for weakness and crosses boundaries, take a firm stand and re-establish stronger limits.
Do not fear loss or gain.
Follow when necessary, lead when necessary, but always be fair to all.
No one is perfect.
Take everyone’s perspective into account.
Forgive others, and forgive yourself.
Learn from each experience,
And be prepared next time,
To know when to blend in and when to stand out,
When to give in and when to walk out.
Dr. Jaya Sonkar MD MPH
©️ 2025 Dr. Jaya Sonkar. All rights reserved.
11.27.2025