I kept pointing out where the ants were and he told me that if I see any to kill them with my thumb. He was getting down on his hands and knees to kill the ants and smash them with his thumb. I asked if I could get my slippers and he said no. He handed me a wipe then told me if I see ants to kill them. He told me that I hadn't killed any ants and I told him it's because I wanted to get my slippers. Why are you even getting down on your hands and knees and killing ants? Why wouldn't you get your slippers and just stomp? So much easier and you don't have the chance of getting bitten. Work smarter, not harder. Then he acted like I didn't want to help when I told him I did want to help and I just wanted to get my slippers. He told me to shut my mouth and to leave him alone. He said that I'm just gonna do whatever I wanna do. He then started acting like I didn't want to help when I did.

Answer 1

It sounds like there was a miscommunication and some frustration in your interaction. You wanted to help with the ants but also wanted to be comfortable by wearing your slippers. Sometimes, when people are focused on a task or have their own way of doing things, they may not see the alternatives or hear the suggestions from others. It seems like you were trying to offer a solution that made the task easier and safer, but it might not have been received well in that moment.

In situations like this, it can help to express your willingness to assist and perhaps suggest working together or finding a compromise. Sometimes, taking a step back to acknowledge each other's viewpoints can ease the tension. It's understandable to want to help while also taking care of yourself, and it’s okay to communicate that. How are you feeling about the situation now?