As we go through life, some people always manage to find the positive side of things, while others find beauty in everything around them. It shouldn’t be difficult to be happy for someone else, right? Unfortunately, there are some individuals who can’t help but feel unhappy when they see others enjoying happiness. Let me share a funny story that perfectly illustrates this.
A woman walks into a hair salon and excitedly tells the hairstylist that she and her husband are going to Rome. Now, you’d expect the hairdresser to be happy for her, right? But instead, she responds with negativity. “Rome? Why would anyone want to go there?” the hairdresser asks, adding that it’s crowded and dirty. Not the response the woman was hoping for.
Undeterred, the woman continues sharing her plans. They have secured a great rate with Continental Airlines. But the hairdresser scoffs at her choice, claiming that the airline is terrible – old planes, ugly flight attendants, and constant delays. The woman then mentions their hotel, a supposedly exclusive place called Teste, located by the Tiber River. However, the hairdresser dismisses it as a dump, bursting the woman’s bubble even further.
Finally, the woman reveals that they hope to see the Vatican and maybe catch a glimpse of the Pope. The hairdresser laughs, pointing out that a million other people have the same idea and that she’s in for a disappointing trip. Not exactly the encouraging response you would expect from a hairdresser.
A month later, the woman comes back to the salon for another hairdo. The hairdresser can’t help but ask about her trip to Rome, secretly hoping to confirm her negative views. But to her surprise, the woman’s experience was quite the opposite of what she expected.
The woman gleefully recounts how they traveled on one of Continental’s brand new planes, which was so packed that they were bumped up to first class. The service, food, and wine were all exceptional, and she even had a handsome steward catering to her every need. And the hotel? It had just undergone a $5 million renovation, transforming it into a true gem – one of the finest hotels in the city. They were even upgraded to the owner’s suite at no extra cost!
Feeling a little deflated, the hairdresser mutters, “Well, that’s all well and good, but I bet you didn’t get to see the Pope.” But much to her surprise, the woman did indeed have a memorable encounter with the Pope during her Vatican tour. As she recounts the story, she explains that a Swiss Guard invited her into the Pope’s private room, where she waited anxiously. And sure enough, the Pope himself walked through the door and greeted her personally. Talk about a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Curious, the hairdresser asks what the Pope said. The woman chuckles and replies, “He asked me, ‘Who screwed up your hair?’” The room fills with laughter.
The moral of this story is that sometimes, despite others trying to diminish our joy, life surprises us in the most unexpected ways. It’s important to stay positive and not let others dampen our spirits.
So the next time someone tries to rain on your parade, remember this story and keep finding joy in the happiness of others. Who knows what delightful surprises await you on your journey?
