Reply To: do you confront someone when they hurt you?

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#822705
m in Israel
Member

The Baalei Mussar learn from the story of Yosef and the Shevatim that if someone has taanos on someone else it is better to express them (keeping it in your heart while acting friendly may even be considered chanifa). However your goal should be to try to deal with the hurt and maybe either heal or end the relationship — not just to “yell and scream” and get back at her.

As hard as it is, try to approach her calmly, in a private place, and give her a chance to explain. Keep the focus on your feelings, not on how awful she is. For example you can say something to the effect that “I was very hurt to find out that you did xyz. I’m sure you didn’t intend to hurt me, but it made me feel like you were . . . (backstabbing me, interfering in my life, etc. — describe how you feel). I would really like to understand why you did this so that I can feel better about it.” Maybe she will have a good explanation, and if not you should just end the conversation with something to the effect of “I’m glad I got this out in the open.” Try not to get sucked into a bigger fight.

Good luck!