Dealing with the bug season
As soon as spring comes, so do the bugs. You may have already noticed butterflies and bees, and may have already had to swat a mosquito or two. When bugs arrive in spring, we need to do something to protect ourselves from them.
Some people use bug repellents. Some use smoke or coils. Some cover up as much exposed skin as possible, limiting the bugs’ opportunities to bug them. Some people try to stay away from long grass or bushes, which are usually infested with bugs. But no matter what we do, many of us just swat them, trying to get them before they get us.
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The flying bugs in life are gone by October or November. But there are bigger bugs in life that we have to deal with all the time – other people. And they don’t take the winters off. People can bug us in many ways. They may interrupt us or butt in when they aren’t wanted. They may make snide or sarcastic remarks. They may be rude, emotionally abusive or just plain pests.
You have to develop your own ways for dealing with such bugs. Unfortunately, they don’t seem to get the message and leave you alone when you ask. After all, that would be respectful and considerate, something that people who bug don’t do. To protect yourself, you may need to develop bug repellents – blunt and concise statements that tell these “bugs” that they have no business being involved in your affairs or in your life. You need to do this firmly but calmly. If you lose your cool and get angry, you’re inviting them to bug you more.
Just as bug repellent wears off and must be reapplied from time to time, you are going to have to tell these same people the same thing time and time again, since they don’t tend to listen or remember.
Covering up with clothing is a way to protect yourself from summer bugs. Being careful about what you choose to share with those who bug you is also a form of protection. Also, avoid situations where you have to deal with people you know will bug you and try to make life miserable for you. This is important at social events. Excuse yourself from people who don’t show respect and appreciation for you. You have a right to take care of yourself.
You can’t totally escape bugs, insect or human. Your final line of defence is to talk to yourself and convince yourself not to become worked up by their words or behaviors.
They can talk. You may hear the words. But you don’t need to hear or react to the message. By focusing your mind on something else, other than what they are trying to bug you about, you will be using the best possible bug protection.
