Flors Riera Enseñat: Dialogue

Harry is talking to his friend Louis during their free period about how he should avoid making disrespectful comments, since they may hurt other people’s feelings.

Harry: I believe you should go and apologize to Eleanor for what you said earlier about her look, it was kind of mean, you know? She was just so excited about trying on something different and you made her feel ridiculous with your comment.

Louis: I don’t get it, what did I do wrong? I just stated a fact! It is not my fault that it looks like she has borrowed Miley Cyrus’ craziest era clothing when we all know that she is just an average girl who likes to read and make pies.

Harry: Louis, you need to understand something here: it may be true that this look doesn’t exactly fit her personality, but she was not feeling comfortable in her old apparel any longer and simply felt like spicing it up a little. Besides, it is none of our business; she can wear whatever she wants to!

Louis: Of course, but I’m also free of speaking my mind and say whatever I’m thinking.

Harry: You are, just as long as it doesn’t hurt other people’s feelings! What I’m trying to say here is that you could have said the same thing in a much nicer approach, just like: “Oh wow new look! Rather unexpected but good for you for giving it a go”. That way you still show how you are not completely sure if it suits her, but you do it on a nice note.

Louis: I mean, I still think what I said wasn’t so bad but sure, I guess it wouldn’t be that difficult to be a little bit more positive. I’ll just have to work on it for a bit though, ‘cause right now it just doesn’t come naturally to me.

Harry: Well, I might be able to help you with that. What about if you write down five rude comments and try to turn them into constructive criticism? I believe if you do so every day, you’ll soon find it a lot easier!

Louis: Ugh! It sounds boring, yet I think I may give it a try. I mean, it can't make me any worse, can it?

Harry: No it can’t, and if you need any help, you may just ask me for it. Now go talk to Eleanor before we need to go back to class, and remember, be positive!