We all know the Golden Rule. It is stated in all scriptures, all philosophies- the ethic of reciprocity- treat others the way you want to be treated. Honestly, I still haven’t decided how I feel about living by it. Sometimes no matter how I would want to be treated, I just can’t treat another person like that. Some people are just bad, mean, morally wrong, or cruel and don’t deserve your time, patience and compassion. (Rant over).
This post looks at the rule from another angle. An angle I do try to live by.
Sometimes we need to treat ourselves the way we would treat others. This goes two ways.
First,
Would you forgive someone else for something you have done? Why can’t you forgive yourself?
Would you stand up for a friend or even a stranger if they are being mistreated or wronged? Why don’t you stand up for yourself?
Would you drop what you’re doing for a friend in need just to be there for them? Why do you think it’s weak to take time for yourself, to stop working, to ask for space or time off so you can recuperate and take care of yourself?
The list can go on. Love yourself more, be more forgiving, let yourself off the hook sometimes, and take care of yourself.
Second,
When you do something wrong or make a terrible mistake, do you tell yourself it’s okay and forgive yourself? Then why are you so unforgiving, hurtful and maybe even hold a grudge over a friend about the same thing?
When you are running late, cancel plans last minute, or cut someone off in traffic, do you understand and tell yourself that you aren’t usually like that? Then why do you question someone else’s character when they do the same things to you?
This list can also go on. Don’t be a hypocrite; you are not better than anyone else. Step into other people’s shoes more and be more understanding.
This is something to think about in all relationships- familial, intimate, work, and platonic.
Think about it,
S.K.
