Yestereve, a co-worker explained to me his outlook on life and relationships. He said in no uncertain terms that he adhered to Aesop's moral that "familiarity breeds contempt." At first this disturbed me. I tried to discuss my views on human nature and the nature of relationships, but he was adamant. He said that one should work on nothing but relationships between spouse and children, keep friends within group confines where it's easy to go along with the herd or get out, and keep distance with all other people. I was unconvinced, but the whole experince of the last few days has been another redeye for me with regard to relationships.



The Fox and the Lion



When first the Fox saw the Lion he was terribly frightened,

and ran away and hid himself in the wood. Next time however he

came near the King of Beasts he stopped at a safe distance and

watched him pass by. The third time they came near one another

the Fox went straight up to the Lion and passed the time of day

with him, asking him how his family were, and when he should have

the pleasure of seeing him again; then turning his tail, he parted

from the Lion without much ceremony.



Familiarity breeds contempt.



I disagree still with Aesop's moral, though as with this essayist, I believe that familiarity engenders a certain level of 'taking for granted.' Unfortunately, this is very true, though if a person strives for gratitude and consciousness, even that shouldn't be so hard to overcome.

Communication is a grand way to foil problems and unclear expectations within relationships, but even when there is communication, there can be mixed signals and unequal frames of reference to screw things up.

Eh, for that matter, certain personalities can be or become repellant, so perhaps that is what Aesop meant. And what can be done about that? Perhaps Christ-like charity is all that can be done for these. I hope people will allow me the benefit of that blessing, at least. It may be my only hope for others wanting to interact with me for very long!