It is said that as human beings we are supposed to carry in our pockets two messages. In one, we have a message that says, “For me the world was created.” In the other, we carry – “I am but dust of the earth.”  Which one is the one we have as our mantra? We are to take a good look at both of them throughout our days. The trick is to know our strengths –  and to balance them out with humility.

I was reminded this the other day when at a party with a group of friends I was talking to an acquaintance about my book, “Mazel Tov! It’s a Bubby!” The acquaintance wanted to know where she could purchase the book. I answered her question with a list of places that I knew had the book. After we switched topics, my husband turned to me and quietly whispered in my ear, “Cut the high pressure salesmanship with these people. It’s not right. They can’t afford the book.”

I was shocked. Was that high pressure? I certainly didn’t think answering the question she asked was pushy or aggressive, but my husband thought so.

Well, whether or not it was, his comment did give me some food for thought. Maybe he was referring to my tone (too eager?), or my long list of recommendations (too detailed). I’m not really sure what he meant and he didn’t really explain. But the idea of balance is something I will consider when at the next gathering with friends.

Maybe I will forget about my book for a few days. See what happens when the next acquaintance asks me about the book, could respond with, “What book?…oh that one…oh no big deal.”

Yeah, right. We shall see. To be continued.