We all experience bouts of envy from time to time. Long ago when one of my children was dealing with this, I thought about loved ones who had expressed envy from time to time about their friends. Yet, when I reviewed their lives and the lives of their friends, it was clear that each of them had their share of wins and losses--thought different, one life wasn't substantially better than the other. I said to my child, When you play the compare game, no one wins.
I had a bout of envy today. As with most envy, it wasn't a worthy thought, just a weak moment. I thought back to the advice I gave to my child and looked at the situation with a broader view. True, those I had envy for were gaining a wonderful experience in life, but false, I had no right to be envious as I have definitely had my share of good times and good experiences too.
Envy tells us that there is something we want or value, and when we use envy to inform ourselves about what is important to us, that envy can well direct us with our actions and pursuits going forward.
In life we will never be the same or experience the exact same positives and not-so-positives, but for the most part, people of good hearts and mind, get a good share of both good times and bad.
Fortunately I was able to share my feelings with a good friend, and that helped. I also took some time to focus on the life gifts I've received over time--the good times I am ever so grateful.
It's okay to have a bout of envy now and then, but it's not okay to let that affect how you treat another person. Onward.