I hate someone who complains a lot. And I worked closely with one. He complained about everything. Work schedule! Roles! Responsibilities! Etc. There wasn't a single thing he didn't complain about. I had to close off my ears and mind anytime he complains. His name was Micheal.
Source
They were three of us. Two guys and a lady. I was the lady. I handle everything front desk secretaries do. This means I was in charge. I gave people roles, and make sure they carry them out effectively. It was one job that allowed me to learn and earn at the same time. My boss was nice enough to help me gain experience on the job.
My co-workers were cold-headed fellows except for Michael, the one who complained a lot. I was grateful the second guy, Etienne was a jovial fellow. He drops his problems at home and shows up ready to work. I found it easier to delegate tasks to him more than the other person. I dreaded the thoughts of sending his partner on errands. This was because I knew he would come up with excuses and complaints.
My relationship with Etienne grew because I could work with him and his attitude towards work. Most times, I felt as though I should report to my boss about the complaining nature of Michael, then, I decided against it.
In the course of work, he told everyone he will be leaving soon. He planned to travel to a different city in a bit to find better working conditions and environment. I waited patiently for that day to come. This way I wouldn't have to tolerate him anymore.
These were my thoughts, I never knew fate had other plans for me. His partner, Etienne was sacked. Oh no! I knew I was dead because now I have to be tolerant of Micheal more.
Etienne had ran errands for a client and forgot to record it. My boss was informed by the client and he made sure to run checks to verify records of the transaction. It wasn't there. There and then, my boss told Etienne to go home until further notice. We all knew that day will never come.
I felt bad. The only person with whom I could work comfortably is gone. Now, I have to deal with Micheal every day, until he gets an assistant.
It was one of those moments of working with him alone, that I blurted out my feelings to him. He tried coaxing me into believing he was the one bearing all of the problems in the world. I wasn't having it. I explained I didn't like the fact that he complained about every tiny thing.
I tell you, the first few weeks were hectic for me. It was unbearable. For me, the other human didn't quit, he was sacked. However, having to work with Micheal taught me a lot of patience. I learned to be patient by force. I tolerated his complaints and soon we were working together better than before
Day by day, I learned to put myself in his shoes. By trying to understand him, I was able to cater to his need and help him work better the rest of the week he was spending with the company. Once it was time for him to leave, it didn't feel as though a burden had been lifted. Instead, I missed him. I had only suddenly come to understand him, and he had to leave. It was short. Temporary. But I am glad I learned a lot about human nature and how to work with others whether I liked their working attitude or not.