Keeping Score

Competitive sorts like myself are notorious for keeping score on just about anything. I'm talking about things beyond games here, things like how often I have to wait for people who aren't on time, or how many times my neighbor clears my sidewalk of snow compared to how often I clear theirs.

I don't keep score of these things to win them, I keep score to make sure I don't lose them, to at least stay even. That way I don't have to feel guily, or worry about looking like an ingrate.

I'd say most people don't keep score. I'd further say that most people would tell you that's a good thing. I disagree. Sure, sometimes that's a plus, because there are people out there who are simply generous. The score means nothing to generous people; everyone should be thankful for that.

But in the final analysis, I think most of the people who don't keep score are inconsiderate at best, mean-spirited at worst. These people never pay it forward, either, because they don't realize that others have done something for them. They take no ownership in their lack of consideration, and give no gratitude to those kind enough to forgive them for it.

I even see this in families. Certain family members may show tremendous support for their kin in times of success or failure, then largely ignore simliar times in another relative's life. I suppose in some families this might be intentional, but regardless, it ultimately ends in resentment.

If people want to start being more considerate, I suggest they start keeping score.