By HILLARY KELLEY
Features Editor
There are times in any relationship, whether it be between family, friends, significant others or even strangers, where an argument threatens to tear everything down. The most common advice is the “take the high road.”
The problem is that it’s much easier said than done. It’s never easy to hear that you’re the one in the wrong, but even when you’re the one who is right, making a conscious effort to put aside your frustration to try and fix the situation is paramount.
Taking the time to calm down and think clearly can also prevent you from saying something that you will regret later. If someone wrongs you, it can be hard to keep yourself from retaliating.
However, by keeping your head up and deciding to act maturely, you are making an example of yourself for that person and for others. Humbling yourself and maintaining a calm countenance will make the process easier.
Most of these altercations come down to a problem with communication. As students at a liberal arts college, a large portion of your studies requires critical thinking and communication skills. Why not apply these skills to other areas of your life?
When you look at the argument from various perspectives, think about it in a critical manner and formulate a calm, informed response, you might be able to remedy the situation then and there.
It’s also hard to recognize that you have a part in the problem, and it’s even harder to apologize at times. But by taking the high road and working through the problem, you will not only feel good about yourself, you may also learn how to handle potential future problems.
Taking the high road may mean taking a route that is difficult to navigate, but the end result will always be better than the alternative that leads to the burden of retaliation, resentment or a long-lasting grudge.