I remember going to a self-help workshop, thinking for a long time about the idea that, “Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to an understanding of ourselves.” — Carl Jung
“What you dislike in someone else is often what you dislike in yourself.” Although I challenged that idea with certain people, I saw myself in many individuals upon whom I had judgments. With the help of books and therapists, I was able to change those behaviors/beliefs/ideas. I learned to judge myself less as well.
Another thought: when you choose to see the good in others you end up finding the GOD in you!
One of the benefits of having lived 8+ decades is that I’ve seen too much to judge people. If you choose someone upon which you throw your judgment, and were given passage to the past traumas of their lives, you would weep—and hug them!
As a teacher I learned that even young children learn to mask their vulnerability and gentle side. They hide behind characters they create in order to feel safe. This was greatly true with the at-risk kids who were under my care. My job was to help them see the goodness that is (always) there beneath the surface. I saw the best in them until they could see that best themselves.
We choose to see the least and the best in people. What do you see the most of in yourself? Look for the good in other people; it will help you to find the good in yourself.
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Scott A. McDaniel photo
