Chapter 15
When Family Loyalty Meets Self-Interest
Alice had said that no one who knew either Russell or herself would be likely to see them in the park or upon the dingy street; but although they returned by that same ungenteel thoroughfare they were seen by a person who knew them both. Also, with some surprise on the part of Russell, and something more poignant than surprise for Alice, they saw this person. All of the dingy street was ugly, but the greater part of it appeared to be honest. The two pedestrians came upon a block or two, however, where it offered suggestions of a less…
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Critical Thinking Exercise
Map Your Vulnerability Points
Think about your current life situation. Identify three areas where you're depending on controlling information, managing impressions, or hiding reality from others. For each area, write down what would happen if that information came out tomorrow, who has power over that exposure, and what your backup plan would be.
Consider:
- •Consider both intentional secrets and things you simply haven't shared yet
- •Think about who in your life could use your vulnerabilities against you if they became desperate
- •Remember that family members often have the most power to help or hurt us
Journaling Prompt
Write about a time when someone used your need for their cooperation to get something from you. How did you handle it, and what would you do differently now?
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