Everyone you meet is one of 2 things

Over the course of our lives, we meet all types of people -- smart, courteous, obnoxious, rude, and everything in between.

While we all wish we could meet only people who make a positive impact in our lives, each and every individual serves a valuable purpose.

In fact, those we come across generally fall under one of two categories:

1. They're a blessing. They lift us up when we're feeling down through their infectious optimism, generosity, and sense of humor.

They exhibit warmth, kindness, and hospitality whenever we're around them. Time seems to fly when we're conversing with these wonderful souls.

Even if we go weeks or months without getting in touch, we can easily pick up where we left off. They're not all smiles all the time, though.

When we're out of line, they're not afraid to put us in our place -- yet, we don't mind because they do so tactfully. They're a welcome enhancement amid a sea of fakers.

2. They're a lesson. Let's face it. Some people -- whether a toxic boss, obnoxious coworker, or indignant ex -- are difficult to tolerate.

They lie to our faces and through their teeth. They make excuses about anything and everything. They can be willfully shallow and self-absorbed. They fail to consider how their decisions might affect other people.

They push others to bend to their will even if the individuals wish not take that course of action. They always have get their way. Even worse, they're given to backstabbing people and pointing the finger when it most conveniences them.

As easy as it is to hurl obscenities at these individuals and lament ever having met them, we should actually be glad they entered our lives, for they represent the very kinds of people we should aim to avoid.

Our hope is that we can mend fences with these people, setting the stage for a fruitful relationship that would essentially put them in the "blessing" category.

But unfortunately, that's unlikely to happen when strong egos and unrelenting pride are involved.

If you meet or know someone who falls into the first group, be sure to nurture and cherish that relationship and never take the person for granted.

If you meet or know someone who belongs in the second group, don't fret. Your experience with this difficult person will better gird you for future interactions with other people.

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