May kilala ka bang mga taong mahilig humingi ng favor pero they make you offer instead of explicitly ask for a favor?
Scenario: We have an out of town trip, everybody confirmed attendance but one. She said she'll think about it.
The day before the trip, I asked "are you coming with us?" She said, "I really want to but I can't."
I would have accepted that answer because I couldn't care less if she came or not but she's still looking at me like we had to continue with that conversation.
My very polite alter ego came over and asked, "why not?"
She said, "I really want to go but I don't have the budget for it."
That was a very logical excuse and very acceptable. But she wasn't making an excuse. While saying it she was looking at me like she's the most pittiful human being. She tried to use her very best puppy-dog eyes.
I wanted to say, "Ok then. Maybe next time." but my very-polite-alter-ego-almost-Canadian responded with "I can loan you some money if you really want to go." I hope she noticed the 'if' part. In my head, I was begging her to deny my offer at least once so I can take my offer back.
Unfortunately, she immediately said "Talaga? Thank You ha!" I smiled.
I regret ever asking why she can't come but I still smiled. The way she manipulated me to giving her money was amusing. I recognize the pattern. I used that sometimes but not as shameless. I usually use the "Are you sure?" phrase after the offer to make sure the person offering is committed. But she's different. Shameless.
From then on, I tried to suffocate my polite alter ego. I can't kill her but I can at still hide her where she can rarely see daylight.
I still see people try it on me. Mention inconveniences, mention things they need or want and look at me waiting for an offer. That offer won't come. I will simply acknowledge the problem but not offer any help.
I won't give help unless asked and only if I really wanted to. I am evil that way.
disclaimer: This happened years ago. If you are my friend, don't worry, it's not you.
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