Negative people suck.

I understand there’s a need for constructive criticism. There’s no room to grow if people are only telling us how wonderful we’re doing. But people that are constantly critical, judgmental and glass is empty kind of people drive me insane. There’s been some moments lately (lots of them) where my judgmental heart has gotten in the way of enjoying simple things, but on the whole, I like to think of myself as an upbeat, positive, encouraging person. In my job, when I play games with some sweet, frail resident, and they take a turn at bean bag toss and cannot get a single one in the hole, I remain upbeat and encouraging. I keep smiling and cheer them on. What good will criticism do in that situation?

I have recently had many interactions with an extremely negative person. It’s the type of person that I would definitely not choose to spend my time with. Unfortunately, I am forced to spend a significant amount of time with this person. This person rarely has a positive word pass their lips. This person loves to argue, and is never wrong in their eyes. It’s the type of person that no matter how much you smile at and say encouraging things to, they will always find something negative to say about the situation.

After enough interactions with this kind of person, it starts to wear on me. The smile that I’ve kept plastered on my face around them starts to fade. The negativity that seeps from their pores begins to get under my skin. After awhile, I simply cannot take it anymore. I start muttering sarcastic comments under my breath and soon the critical me begins to come forward. I don’t like that me.

Simply put, I hate any time spent in this person’s presence. I run the other way when I see them coming. I come home grumbling and complaining about something that person has said. It’s wearing on me.

A couple years ago, when this situation was fresh and I still had energy to deal with it, I ran across this quote in a prayer room at church.

Never begrudge time given to chronic complainers, but recognize in each encounter the opportunity to speak a word that might lead to their liberation.

No case is too hard for Me.

I’ve tried to do that. Honestly, I have. But I just don’t have the energy to do it anymore. I feel that God is telling me there is work to be done in this situation, but I cry out and complain to Him that I just can’t take it anymore (anyone else see the irony in complaining to God about a chronic complainer?)

I suppose the best thing is simply to take a deep breath each morning and pray for the strength and patience needed each day for this situation. I do have a pea shooter in my purse, but I’m thinking that’s not the best option, no matter how tempting.

Any other suggestions on how to deal with a difficult, negative person?