It’s hard for many of us to believe, and even to accept, that the way in which we see ourselves is not how the rest of world sees us.
I came across this wonderful quote the other day which read, “A different version of you exists in the minds of everyone who knows you.” – Spirit Science, Archann.net
A powerful revelation, isn’t it?
Oftentimes, myself included, we take pride in the people we truly believe ourselves to be. And many times, those “people” are greatly exaggerated when viewed outside of our own view.
We convince ourselves that our actions and behaviors are justified, that the time we afford to those around us is satisfactory, that the kindness and positive influence we share with others is actually present.
Perhaps it is, or perhaps it’s simply the way in which we see ourselves.
Mahatma Gandhi once wrote, “It is good to see ourselves as others see us. Try as we may, we are never able to know ourselves fully as we are, especially the evil side of us. This we can do only if we are not angry with our critics but will take in good heart whatever they might have to say.”
Another powerful revelation.
In my recent post, My grandmother – still alive and well in my heart, a comment was left heavily contrasting the relationship my grandmother and I shared.
I don’t mind comments that challenge my views at all – dialogue is always a good thing in life.
But the comment made me truly reflect on the quote I referenced above – “A different version of you exists in the minds of everyone who knows you.”
I suppose that statement could very well apply to my grandmother.
But you know what? It also applies to the rest of us as well.
The way in which we see ourselves oftentimes causes us to forget that life is never black and white and blame is easy to assign – but rather difficult to unravel.
Garon Whited wrote:
“There are generally at least three sides to any story, though.”
“Three?”
“One side, the other side, and the truth.”
