I'd prefer not to.....

So if I were to ever tell my mother that I'd prefer not do do something when she asked, I can not even imagine the consequences. I give the lawyer an immense amount of credit in this circumstance. I think too often in our society we jump to our reactions and do not take the time to really understand people the way we need to. Too often in this world, bosses just look at their employees as things and not human beings with backgrounds and histories. This story indicates how important it is to really know those around you. By not simply going off on Bartelby, the Lawyer shows patience and understanding with him. I think he knew what events had happened in his past that would allow him to act in such a manner. By knowing this about him, Bartleby does fine for a little while, but then is lead to an inevitable demise. Everyone can take a lesson of patience from this story and truly having a grip on those around us.