Monday, June 29, 2015

Stick Your Neck Out From the Wolf Pack

Take away the labels and we're all very similar.  It's the labels that encourage prejudice and bigotry.  Yes, we have different ideals, opinions, religions, lifestyles, hobbies, interests, cars, houses, jobs, ethnicities, hairstyles, clothes...on and on....but cut all that stuff away and we're basically the same.  We need to stop and realize that when we're tempted to pass judgement on another human being.  We need to show compassion rather than contempt; understanding rather than intolerance.  Treat all humans humanely.

Sure, you may run into someone who treats you badly, and all sorts of nasty thoughts pop  into your head.  It's happened to all of us at one time or another, right?  Maybe even a lot of times.  I have two thoughts on this:  

1.  Okay fine, judge people on a case by case basis.  If they mess with you, you have a right to be angry and resentful.  You have a right to defend yourself.

2.  Ah but remember that word "compassion"?  Try showing some the next time you're experiencing hateful feelings toward someone.  Think of why they may have done you wrong; why they are the way they are. 


You could attempt to actually get to know the person or group of people you despise.  Make a point to talk with those you have disagreements with; yes, talk, but also listen.  What's their story?  What are their struggles?  What are their passions?  What are their interests?  What are their fears?  Learn about your "enemy" "the sinner," "the pervert," "the coward," "the lazy bum," "the towelhead," "the cheapskate," "the bleeding heart," "the Retardican," "the Dumocrat," "the loser," "the freak,"  "the low life". . . .  You may find out that you have something in common with them, or at least you may develop a little compassion for your fellow human beings.  I hope so.

The next time you're feeling judgemental, stop and think if this is truly how you want to live your life.  Is this how your parents raised you?  Is this how you want to be perceived or remembered?  How does being judgemental serve you?  Answering these questions honestly can help you make valuable changes in your attitude, and your life. 

Take the time to learn about your fellow human beings from the inside out.  When you get to know the real person behind the media hype or group stereotypes, it's harder to hate.  Have the courage to stick your neck out from the wolf pack and give it a try.

As always, I welcome comments.  Email me at amy@acnlifecoach.com or comment below.  Thanks!   

4 comments:

  1. I love your strong words, Amy. It's so hard to stop the labels - and change our perceptions, isn't it?

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    1. Thank you Corinne! You're so right about the labels. They are everywhere. Something I've been thinking about lately: separating yourself from others. One example that comes to mind is women and gyms. Women want to be considered equal (humans all should be equal), yet there are women-only gyms, women's workout rooms at gyms. I don't know if I'm out of line here or not, but it seems odd to me that, if women believe they are equal and should be treated as such, why do some want separate facilities to work out in? Any thoughts?

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  2. Yes, this is the only way we will understand that we are all connected. We must engage with each other on a human level..

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    1. Thank you Carol. It is so important that we stop and remember kindness, humanity, compassion. In this crazy, busy world, it's not absent but it's harder to find it in ourself sometimes.

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