Tuesday, January 25, 2022
People can only act according to their level of self-awareness. If someone is unaware, they simply don’t know that their mind is torturing them. They think “the world” is against them, and so they lash out. When you witness such a person, it’s important not to get infected with their fearful, angry ways. Remaining conscious of such behavior allows you to observe without getting caught up in their inner drama. It allows you to distance, and to have just enough space for the most important way to react to such immaturity. And the only way to react to anger is with compassion. Of course, we are to never allow others to abuse or mistreat, but it’s important to see why people lash out.
Angry people have a disdain for their own existence, not for the people that they blame. When you understand this, it helps you to become part of the solution. It helps you to see why compassion is so important in the presence of an angry person. It helps you to understand your own anger too. When you lash out, try to understand what it says about how you feel about yourself, not about what others have done or about the seemingly frustrating situation. Pointing the finger at others, saying they are to blame for your suffering never actually relieves the suffering. Blame doesn’t heal you, it only justifies anger. Compassion is the key to restoration. Have compassion for everyone who is suffering, today. But above all, have compassion for yourself. Try not to blame others for your so-called misfortune. Self-compassion will do so much for you, and for the world. It’s the only way to stop the bitterness of blame.