How We're Perceived

We never know how we’re perceived
Unless somebody tells us,
And sometimes finding out the truth
Both injures and repels us.

Discovering a negative
In how we come across
Is most disturbing and might show
Our confidence who’s boss.

We try our best to get along
But things get in the way,
And criticizing sometimes helps
To make somebody’s day.

Today I’ve learned at least one person
Thinks I domineer;
Although that isn’t my intent,
That’s how I do appear.

It’s disconcerting to find out
That who we think we are
Is miles away from others’ views,
A distance way too far.