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Lessons I've Learned From Roommates

Over the past five-plus years, I've had to rely on others to carry some of the load on rent and bills. I've lived with my father, alone briefly, but assisted financially by my brother, then I've lived with a married gay couple, who then took on additional tenants, and now, with one female student, who is 12-13 years younger than I. I can't say any of these times have been enjoyable to the point I didn't covet solitude, but at times, simply another person around was a nice thing, especially when the couple's grandkids came to visit. I will not go into deep exploration and discussion on why or how I've learned these things, because I do not want this viewed as an attack or judgment. These are simply things I've learned, both as a witness, and a participant in these environments.

  1. We all display "love" every differently.
  2. Most people crave attention. Negative or positive matters not.
  3. Being alone is not a prerequisite for loneliness
  4. People who feel burdened do not see any time as being "free."
  5. You can tell everything about a person by how they treat their pets.
  6. Inaction is an action for many.
  7. Common colds are the body's response to a lack of common sense.
  8. Decency is often viewed as being high-strung.
  9. If you do something for someone once, be prepared to do it always.
  10. The kitchen is where territorial behavior is exhibited most.
  11. Not everyone has the ability to be caring when it matters most
  12. The burdens of one are the joys of another.
  13. People who often think they are indisposable are often disposed of.
  14. 50/50 is a burden for those who seek equality.
  15. Cleanliness is a subjective view.
  16. People with little to say will talk about what they know; themselves. Constantly.
  17. Criticism of others should always make us learn about ourselves. It doesn't.
There are more, but they border on being petty. Please realize this is based on seven other adults, who I've been fortunate or unfortunate to live with. They all have their strengths and all have their weakness when it comes to traits, character, and convictions. Many, in their own way, have changed how I live my life, I hope, for the better.

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