Truth

I pulled this picture from my MySpace page. It is a truth in reference to any relationship.

Why is it that we expect so much from other people but so little from ourselves? Or, that if we do have expectations for ourselves, they are on a totally different par? It baffles me. An example would be me telling a friend they need to lose 10 pounds, when I myself could stand to lose about 50 pounds. What right do I have to point out someone else's flaws, imperfections, shortcomings, etc., if my own are even worse? None whatsoever. Unfortunately, people today are so wrapped up in the lives of others that they forget about their own. It's much easier to point out the errors and failures in others to avoid facing the hard, cold fact that you yourself are no better....that your obstacles and mistakes may in fact be worse.

There is a fine line between trying to help someone and simply reading into things, creating a terrible scenario in your head, and assuming the worst about everything. If someone seems pissed off for a minute, do not automatically come to the conclusion that they are miserable in life. It probably just means they're pissed at the moment. Let it go. If a person is frustrated, you shouldn't assume that it is directed toward you. It probably isn't, but if you antagonize the situation, then it most definitely will be refocused on you. Let it go.

Of course, there is an exception to every rule. You may be in an instance where someone you care about is a substance abuser or intentionally causing pain, and it directly affects you. By all means, say something. Take some action. That situation is affecting you as much as the other person involved. In this case, it is your responsibility to do something, because obviously that person can't or more likely, won't.

The point is to let people make their own mistakes. That is how we learn and grow. We are all vastly different and yet so similar. If we expect so much of each other, we will only push each other away, and the harder we try, the worse it will get. We will always want the best for the ones we love, but what our definition and their definition of the "best" is may be completely different.

Please, try to help- not pass judgment, to listen- not assume, and to love unconditionally- not expect the impossible. So love your children. Love your significant other. Laugh, play, cry, hug, argue, make up, talk, all the wonderful things that make us, Us. The rest will take care of itself.