August 20

How often do we look at someone (friend, partner, or stranger) and think, “Why don’t they just shut up?” Or “Why do they act that way?” Often, we look at people and wish them to be different. We are judging them. That’s exactly what you’re doing. You’re not allowing them to be themselves by secretly wanting to change them. The ideal is to meet and allow people to be where they are. To accept them for who they are and in the moment they are in. We are strange social creatures, and we can sit in judgment of others for hours. We even have a name for it: “people watching.” We can feel superior, but at the same time, we can have so many faults of our own. It’s nearly impossible to escape this feeling once it has started, so be wary of your judgments and stay attuned to your feelings of jealousy and envy.

Reflections

Am I concerning myself with others today to not look too closely at myself?

Daily Challenge

If you find yourself judging someone today, approach them and, make small talk, see where it leads. Maybe you can be of service.