If we observe ourselves closely, we’ll soon realise how often we think or speak about what bothers us in others. We could list countless examples: complaints about family, friends, neighbours, coworkers, things we see on the street, or even about the social and political world. The list goes on and on.
I often hear critical remarks followed by opinions based on the speaker’s personal perception. What’s interesting is that somehow, we all believe we could do things better than everyone else. The arrogance, often unnoticed by the one speaking, implies that what they say is the absolute truth.
We already know that we are all mirrors of one another, and what bothers us in others is often something we carry within ourselves, though we may not have realised it yet.
In these situations, it can be incredibly helpful to turn our attention inward and look for the spark, the fire, that triggered our reaction. If we find it, that is the moment to tend to that part of ourselves. And to feel grateful for whatever made us pause and look within.
If we don’t find it, let’s stay aware, and when it happens again, check once more.
If you commit to this simple practice until your mind no longer leads you to criticise or judge, you will have released a great weight you were carrying without even knowing it. But if you choose to do this, be honest with yourself.
The Indigenous peoples of North America have a saying: “Don’t speak ill of anyone until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes.”
I am the force of life and so are you.
