Читать книгу Above and Beyond - J.S. Dorian - Страница 40

“We every day and every hour say things of another that we might more properly say of ourselves.”

MICHEL EYQUEM DE MONTAIGNE

It may be difficult to prove scientifically, but many of us know from experience that constant negativity—judgmentalism in particular—weakens our immune system. Moreover, when we unrestrainedly judge others, we tend to feel that we are being judged in the same ways. As a result, we spend a lot of time worrying about what others think of us and we become painfully self-conscious and self-critical. Judgmentalism keeps us angry, afraid, and alienated.

It’s easy to say that we’ll turn over a new leaf to overcome judgmentalism, but the process takes commitment, effort, and discipline. Over time, we can gradually retrain our minds to notice and appreciate the goodness in others rather than their faults; to focus on the positive instead of the negative; and to be less cynical and more tolerant.

We can also acknowledge that the flaws we see and criticize in others are probably the same traits that we dislike in ourselves. At the same time we can concentrate on our spiritual goals, reminding ourselves regularly that God loves each and every one of us unconditionally. And we can strive to live in that same spirit, as we believe He would have us live.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

Judgmentalism leaves no room for healing and growth.