People Will Show You Who They Are
Happy New Year
May your holiday season be filled with joy, peace, and abundant love
Christmas has always been a special time of year for me. It's not about the food, and it's not about the presents, unless you're a four-year-old, of course. At its core, Christmas is about family, love, and being surrounded by people who genuinely care about you. Over the years, I've grown to appreciate the simple traditions that make this holiday so meaningful, and one of my favorite traditions has become sitting down on the couch with my father-in-law on Christmas Day to watch football.
This simple act has grown into something I genuinely look forward to every year. My father-in-law and I don't just watch the game. We talk. We discuss life, the world, the books I've been reading, and some challenges we've both faced. These conversations are rich, honest, and fulfilling. In these moments, I find not just companionship but wisdom. And let me tell you, I genuinely adore my in-laws. In fact, I often joke with my wife that if we ever got divorced, I'd keep her family. Of course, she reminded me that it doesn't quite work that way.
I reflect even more deeply this Christmas because I've overcome many challenges this year. I'm living my dreams, and I'm incredibly grateful for that. But this season has also reminded me of a truth I've had to repeat to my wife a few times: people will be who they are. It's a simple yet profound reality. You can't be disappointed when people show you their true colors, whether dishonesty, laziness, or any other trait, because people will only change when they decide it's time.
My wife and I run a business together, and one of her biggest frustrations is the number of people who simply don't read. Contracts, disclaimers, agreements, and essential information that require attention often go unread. And I understand her frustration. Sometimes, people feel allergic to reading anything longer than two sentences. But here's the hard truth: those who don't read likely won't change their habits. People who refuse to put in the effort to understand the details will continue to make avoidable mistakes.
The same principle applies to money. If someone can't manage $25,000 a year, they won't magically become financially responsible when earning $250,000. More money doesn't solve financial irresponsibility; it often magnifies it. Financial discipline isn't about the amount you have; and it's about your mindset and habits.
This pattern extends to so many aspects of life. Selfish people will remain selfish until life teaches them a hard lesson or they decide, on their own, to change. Rude people will continue to be rude until they recognize the consequences of their behavior. And trust? Well, trust is a complex thing. There are some people who, no matter how trustworthy you are, will never fully trust you. It's not about you, it's about them.
I've learned that people react differently when honesty and integrity are tested. If they find $1,000 on the ground, some people will pocket it and call it a blessing. Others will go out of their way to find the rightful owner. The situation itself defines neither group; their character characterizes them. And character is something you can't force on anyone. You either have it or you don't.
So, what do we do with this knowledge? First, we let go of the illusion that we can change others. We can inspire, encourage, and lead by example, but ultimately, change must come from within. Second, we stop letting other people's behavior steal our joy. Christmas, and life in general, is too short to let someone else's bad attitude dampen our spirit.
Despite the negativity around me, I salute those who carry a positive mental attitude. It's not always easy to stay positive in a world full of challenges, but those who do are the ones who make the world a better place. I also salute those on the path to self-improvement, those who recognize their shortcomings and are actively working to improve. And yes, I even salute those who choose to remain stuck in their ways because, at the end of the day, everyone has to be who they are.
A fish is going to be a fish, and a tiger will be a tiger. People will show you who they are, time and time again. The sooner we accept this truth, the more peace we will have.
As we celebrate this holiday season, let's focus on what truly matters: family, love, and gratitude. Let's cherish the quiet moments, the laughter, and even the football games on the couch. Let's be present with the people we love and focus on becoming the best versions of ourselves.
This New Year, I'm reminded again that life is a gift. Every moment, interaction, and conversation is an opportunity to grow, learn, and love. And whether people around us choose to grow or not, we can still choose our response. We can choose kindness. We can choose patience. And we can choose to remain grateful.
To everyone reading this, I wish you a Happy New Year filled with love, laughter, and warmth. No matter your challenges this year, know that you are here for a reason. Keep shining your light, and remember: people will be who they are, but you have the power to choose who you are.
Happy New Year, and may your holiday season be filled with joy, peace, and abundant love.