Over the last few weeks, I’ve found myself battling feelings of envy regarding so many facets of my life – my appearance, my social status, my wealth, my relationships with family and friends.
This time of year may in fact be a time for hope and celebration, but it’s also a time for personal reflection – and many times we’re not always pleased with what we see.
Wallowing in my own self pity is usually how I like to deal with these things. But it’s this self-defeatist attitude which only makes the situation worse.
I once learned from a very wise woman, who has helped me through many personal struggles, that so many times our emotions are not grounded in reality, but rather the result of our own insecurities, envy and wild imaginations. Guilty!
Honore de Balzac once remarked that, “Envy is the most stupid of vices, for there is no single advantage to be gained from it.”
I couldn’t agree more, especially when you accept the reality that no one’s life is perfect.
I think that needs repeating (and underlining) no one’s life is perfect – no matter how it might appear on the outside.
To envy the life of another is foolish when you understand that no matter how successful your life may be, it will always have its share of ups and downs; triumphs and failures.
If you’re a regular reader, you’ll know that I’ve spoken about this subject repeatedly. I guess sometimes I need a little reminder that I’m okay just the way I am and that there are people who love and respect me as such.
Maybe you need a little reminder too.
