DIANA REPUBLIC

I have officially had enough of passive aggressive behavior. How hard is it to say what you actually mean? I, for one, feel that I can handle the truth. I would really prefer outright aggressive behavior, but maybe I am alone.

Passive aggresssion poses a number of problems, as I see it:

First, it is a risky method of communication. It has inherent flaws in its potential to be effective. There is the possibility that the passive receiver will not get the message. What is the point of sugar coating an otherwise unpleasant message if some dolt can not even read between the lines? Worse yet, you may come across someone who actually can read between the lines and chooses not to let on (which I realize is passive aggressive in itself).

Secondly, passive aggressive behavior can make the receiver defensive. To add insult to injury the receiver is unable to properly defend himself. Since the crux of the issue is not clearly identified as an issue, any defense seems like an overreaction, thus frustrating the hell out of the receiver which leads me to the final flaw.

Passive aggressive behavior is extremely aggravating. That Chesire cat grin you wear while you dole out what any doughnut with a pulse can tell is an insult is fooling no one. The question “Is your truffle risotto good?” will get you an answer, but not a bite in my world. This mode of communication puts the aggressor, no matter how passive, at risk of being punched in the neck, giblets or other disposable chicken part.

So go ahead, be passive aggressive at your own risk. I can’t promise not to play dumb, get defensive or kick your ass. How’s that for actual aggression?