The Measure of Passion

My husband collects coins as his investment. The prices of the collectible coins right now are surprisingly high. Last week, he was pissed because he bought a whole bunch of coins- probably around $800 total from one seller on eBay. When it arrived, he was so disappointed. The coins didn’t look exactly as the photos. So, when he saved the photos and blow it up, some marks were gone. The photos were greatly photoshopped! Oh, a bunch of thieves, he said. When we looked at his sales, he had sold a lot, more than 3000 feedback in a month. Wow!

He asked for a refund and returned some of the coins that looked terrible. The guy gave his refund but my husband still is not satisfied. He asked me if it was me- “would I give him a negative feedback?” I said, no- maybe neutral. But he said, it’s stealing and if he wouldn’t respond correctly, it will just continue. Of course, he is right but I don’t think I had the nerve to do it. Wished I’m like him.

My husband’s attitude pretty much reminded me of my Mom. When I was a kid, I’m always scared when my Mom got into trouble. I mean, she doesn’t tolerate injustice, lies and misconceptions. She’s very upfront and outspoken no matter what, where and to whom she’s speaking with especially if she knew that it’s not good. One time, she attended a PTA during one of our high school’s general assembly. She was all the way speaking against the lazy teachers, inconsiderate nuns, lousy teaching strategies, poor discipline, etc. Nobody can do it except my Mom and most parents were just nodding, they had complains but doesn’t talk at all. I was the class President at that time but I didn’t really go to the meeting room. She already told me that she’s going to speak. I begged her not to do it coz it would be embarrassing but of course nobody can stop her. It was just one of the scenarios though. Presently, she acts as the voice of the employees and she’s the President of the Union. Thank goodness, it’s a government union to sort of protect employees.

My husband kept asking me how is it possible that most of her kids (us) are so coy and timid unlike our Mom which has a strong personality. He even asked me if I’m still embarrassed of what she had done. Well, after all these years, I realized my Mom is right and I’m proud of it.