Comparison is the thief of joy.
~ Theodore Roosevelt
Comparison robs us of joy in two distinct ways.
1. Comparison forces us to choose a winner and a loser --- a better and a worse. If we view ourselves as better, arrogance follows. If we view ourselves as worse, discouragement gains a stronghold. Neither attitude benefits character development. In some circumstances, this also hinders our life's purpose. We quit because we aren't good enough - forgetting our efforts can still benefit others.
2. Comparison, especially when we fall short, negates gratitude. We complain about what we don't have or what we cannot accomplish. We discount our abilities rather than offering thanks for the blessings in life.
Brene Brown advocates the practice of cultivating gratitude. For there is no joy without it.
I would take that one step further. I think an essential component of cultivating gratitude is to release comparison.
1. Comparison forces us to choose a winner and a loser --- a better and a worse. If we view ourselves as better, arrogance follows. If we view ourselves as worse, discouragement gains a stronghold. Neither attitude benefits character development. In some circumstances, this also hinders our life's purpose. We quit because we aren't good enough - forgetting our efforts can still benefit others.
2. Comparison, especially when we fall short, negates gratitude. We complain about what we don't have or what we cannot accomplish. We discount our abilities rather than offering thanks for the blessings in life.
Brene Brown advocates the practice of cultivating gratitude. For there is no joy without it.
I would take that one step further. I think an essential component of cultivating gratitude is to release comparison.
Eliminating comparison also cultivates compassion. We begin to admire the abilities of others instead of harboring jealousy. We willingly accept our strengths and weaknesses. We extend grace and increase love - for self and others.
For decades I thought the Bible admonished self-love. We are supposed to love others instead of ourselves, right? At least that's what Delilah taught me.
But if I take the time to accurately read this scripture verse, I discover God's command is to love others as ourselves. Love all - no exceptions.
Delilah tells me love is conditional. I must earn love by being selfless and perfect. And my efforts are never good enough.
God's word tells me love is unconditional. All are worthy of love, compassion, and grace. Even me.
For decades I thought the Bible admonished self-love. We are supposed to love others instead of ourselves, right? At least that's what Delilah taught me.
But if I take the time to accurately read this scripture verse, I discover God's command is to love others as ourselves. Love all - no exceptions.
Delilah tells me love is conditional. I must earn love by being selfless and perfect. And my efforts are never good enough.
God's word tells me love is unconditional. All are worthy of love, compassion, and grace. Even me.
This is my commandment:
Love one another as I have loved you.
John 15:12 (ESV)
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