Analyzing Annoyance

Analyzing+Annoyance

Phoebe Wang, Staff Writer

To be annoyed is merely another part of life. Whether that comes from a troublesome sibling, a nagging adult, or a clingy friend, we deal with this feeling on a daily basis. However, in the end, would you prefer the opposite? Imagine a cold brother, a disinterested parent, or a “friend” who’s indifferent to all you do. Personally, I believe that being annoyed is better than being ignored.

For most of us, we have been an attention seeker at some point in our life—from our toddler age to even now. Simply put, it isn’t wrong to seek attention. It’s a biological factor embedded in us from a young age, an important part of staying mentally healthy, and one of the most important parts of our lives. As such, for those who seem to shower us with unwanted love, they really aren’t doing anything wrong. It’s important to note that, ultimately, this attention is born from their care for us. Keep that in mind.

In the words of Elie Wiesel, “the opposite of love is not hate, but indifference.” To be denied attention or care is like being disowned by the world. As human beings, relationships are a huge part of our lives. We are meant to be social creatures. The feelings of abandonment and loneliness are some of the most terrifying that we could ever experience. To not be loved or to have too much care, isn’t it undeniably obvious that to have too much is better than none? Most of us live in happy families, spoiled by the love and concerns of others. It’s reasonable that we cannot understand what it means to not have that care. Plus, it’s not like we earned that love. We are simply given it. I believe it to be presumptuous to complain about a gift. Just be thankful, and move on.

While it’s not like suddenly understanding what it means to have attention will spur you to suddenly not find it annoying, we really should appreciate those around us more. The fact that you are annoyed shows that you are cared for, you are wanted, and you are valued. Someone wants to spend their time—to focus their attention on you. So, don’t be afraid of being annoying or being annoyed. It might just be another way to show love.

 

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