Everyone has quirks.
Some quirks are endearing.
Some quirks are irritating.
Why don’t they replace that roll?
Why do they wait until the recycling is overflowing?
Why do they always bring up that thing when you visit?
Why do they [insert our issue, pet peeve, history, expectation, or offense] here?
Recently we have experienced some loss.
Recently those around us have experienced some loss.
Recently we got news that more loss is coming.
Loss causes a shift in perspective.
What was once irritation now causes comfort.
An empty roll means they are still here. Maybe just a few moments ago.
Messy toys on a table, way too many wet shoes piled in a heap by the back door, fingernail polish on the coffee table, the piercing pain when you step on a LEGO, the fuel gauge left on empty, piles of unopened mail, the strange pile of receipts by the phone, clutter on the stairs, jackets on the backs of chairs, modeling clay in the carpet, gum in the driveway, mystery stains on the kitchen floor, the overflowing hamper, the heap of clothes by the shower, whatever gets stuck in the drain, loud voices downstairs in the morning, slurping noises while drinking, loud crunchy chewing, and the list goes on, and on, and on.
Today you have all these things. Someday they will cease.
Instead of irritation. Choose savoring the quirks.
Maybe these quirks can be reminders of what you have.
Carl Weber Consulting 