Everyone we meet has a backstory. There are things that have happened, and choices that have been made, that have played a part in shaping them into who they are today.
And this is important to remember when we run into people that are mean or bitter or cold. Odds are they’ve experienced things in the past that have affected them in negative ways.
And although this doesn’t condone their actions today, it can help us better understand why they do what they do. And if we let it, this understanding can help us respond with more patience and grace than we might otherwise.