Her Most Faithful Servant

Dear Princess Celestia,

Today's lesson... Where do I even begin?

There were two parts to the lesson today. First you taught me how to not let ponies, who aren’t close to me, get into my head to manipulate me. The answer was remarkably simple. It was almost hard to grasp. Basically, you have to be aware of how much information you share with the ponies you don't know. Not just verbal information about yourself, but the subtle cues that you give off as well. I'm seeing a common trend where a lot of these things that I’m learning are social skills that need practice and patience to master. I’m not sure what all the subtle cues I give off are yet, but I’m sure I’ll figure it out. I don't think this part will be as hard as the next one.

The second half of this lesson hit really close to home. Almost... Too close to home. How to not let those who are close to me, manipulate me. The minute you introduced this part to me, I was on the edge of my seat. This was exactly what I wanted. With Rarity in mind, I pushed forward into this lesson, ready to build a shield. I was ready to learn how to control myself around her.

Manipulation usually comes in pretty predictable packages. Leading questions and statements, peer pressure, and guilt trips are major red flags that I will have to watch for. In addition, falling for basic social cues, where there's no other option than to be polite, is another red flag. In a sense, these are all bait. And you can’t go for it. The minute you indulge in the bait, you’re on the hook.

That’s when it all began to fall into place. I can’t tell you the number of times Rarity has said: ‘Oh, wouldn’t you be a dear and do X thing for me, darling? It would mean ever so much to me.’ She was packaging what she wanted me to do for her in tiny little bows that would make me feel good. She probably doesn’t even realize she’s doing it.

Honestly, this is going to be a difficult one. I've been manipulated a lot in my life, and my friends know how to pick me apart like it’s nothing. However, I’m sure it doesn't necessarily mean that all manipulation by friends is bad. Some probably have good intentions. But by developing this skill, I can protect myself from the ponies who just want to use me. My life will be so much easier if I can just say no.

When. When I can say no.

Your Faithful Student,
Anon