Reflections with Intent

Learning is one reason for living and we learn from what others have to teach. In this exchange, we also become teacher with something to pass to others. Many people become depressed when they forget their purpose, or feel they have none. We all have a taste, or benefit, to contribute to this big salad, as I like to call it. I wish for everyone to allow their purpose to flourish, without expectation from society or those around us, whether it be big or small. Whatever that means because size is only a matter of perception and maybe that is where the harsh self-judgment lies. From the grocery clerk to the president of a country, they all add something and we need to respect them all on their own path. In that respect, we learn to respect ourselves. So many want to judge people in their purpose, whether it be considered "good" or "bad," and yet lack in respecting themselves. There is a huge difference in observing and judging. I try not to judge others for judging others, or at least strive not to. I see that in their criticism, they are finding themselves. (Maybe that is a judgment in itself?) Just like mirrors, they help us to see ourselves. Upon finding dark under-eye circles in the mirror do you decide that you need to change your lifestyle or habits. I find that it is hard to see oneself when it looks the same day after day. Hence, many choose to be around those who are similar because it is comfortable. You find that when you are around someone who does not share the same values and thoughts, tension at times arises. Tension is what creates change and in turn allows you to see yourself more clearly.

Many judge those who run our countries, our governments and yet when you really look you see the same ailments that plague us all: greed, power, instant sexual satisfaction, etc. But it is really selfishness, a lack of care for others over their own gain. Why do you think so many Buddhists say improve yourself and you improve the world. I think we forget our power to change the world. Do you think barking and complaining really changes much? It only shows anger or gives a headache, they cannot see themselves when they are confronted with the same...look in the mirror. That is why it is so important to work on your own selfishness and move towards self-sacrifice. Imagine if everyone did this? If a majority, a collective consciousness, left the selfish to be out-numbered and without support, only then can we create greater change. I know some of you will not agree and say what about those assholes who maliciously kill others? Yes, there are people whose purpose is to "fight" those people...that is self-sacrifice and that may be their purpose. And when you have cleared all the bullshit away within yourself, you will know if and when you will take action. You may call me idealistic, or simplistic, but maybe life is more simple than you think and we make it more difficult than it is. Ask why is it so hard to simply say, "I am sorry," to someone, especially someone you love? Something so easy and beneficial for both giver and receiver and yet we make it so difficult. I have faith in the magic that people can create in this big world with all the small things. I can not make others change, I can only pass what I feel and my ability to love. At times, the pain in this world weighs heavily on my heart and I am trying to learn how to let go of the judgment which causes that pain. Perhaps writing is a tool that effects the reflection in which looks back at me.