Ode to Narcissism

No Extra-Credit.

I think that maybe my father raised me the way that he did, in part, to harden me and to prepare me for the “real world.” There’s a lot of things he has done that I don’t necessarily agree with, but I think he did what he knew how to do.  I won’t get into the details now - maybe I’ll post something more in-depth when I’m feeling more emotional.

I tend to stand up for myself and for what I believe in, even when I know it will make me unpopular or disliked. That is just the way that I am - and no, I’m not claiming to be a saint. Sometimes I can stand up for myself and my beliefs in a way that is not entirely appropriate to the situation. As I’ve grown older, and more mature, I’ve learned to do this less and less. It’s more than just learning, or being afraid of the consequences - it’s not wanting to do this anymore, or not even feeling the desire to do this. The desire’s still here, and still flairs up sometimes, but generally I keep it in check.

An example of my temper getting the better of me can be found in this e-mail exchange between myself and my professor concerning extra credit:

My Professor:

“No extra-credit. I’ve never quite understood the concept of “extra” credit when all I want is the regular credit assignments completed.”

My Response:

“Dr. __________:

I suppose I understand where you are coming from. However, maybe the “Extra Credit” concept is for students, like myself, who had special circumstances prevent them from completing the original assignment (like a family emergency).

However, as you, on principal, do not offer extra credit, the point is moot.

I’ll take the grade reduction. I don’t really have a choice.

Thank you for your time.”

Probably not the best way I could’ve handled that, but whatever.