Odious and Erroneous: The Mind Compares

We live under a microscope in our media-heavy, constant-barrage
world...and it isn't for the weak of heart.

With all the scrutiny and proliferation of images and ideas, we're
all likely to find ourselves guilty of comparing our lives to the lives
of others. Or at least what those lives look like on the outside!

Because we're hurting, struggling, and afraid, we can assume we're
'not doing it right.' Because we look at the illusion other people
maintain. 'Fronting' is common amongst everyone--especially
the wealthy, who know that attitude and psychological intimidation
are means of winning the game--by throwing others off theirs.

But you can never assume you know someone's real situation.

Everyone keeps their cards close to the vest; image and
illusion are a part of the game. Pretending to do well carries
the same weight as actually doing well (in the eyes of the world,)
and appearing less vulnerable is a common, smart sttrategy.

But it's that very habit of comparing what others appear to
be doing (against our jaded view of our own capabilities) that
brings on trouble. Often without even realizing it, those of us
with mental health issues buy into the world's notion that we
are less than, incapable, repugnant, don't measure up, and all
other manner of negative tripe.

Those attitudes are so pervasive that we end up taking
them on as our own, refusing to question them...refusing
even to be able to see ourselves objectively. It's good to clear
the baggage in our heads and refocus on what is true, without
emotion and assumption and jealousy fogging our minds.

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Assumptions

Who told us to think the way we do?


Even after knowing that what we worry about hardly
ever comes to pass, why do we still hold to the
outdated and self-sabotaging ideas that persist in our
heads?


When we hear the phone ring, why do we tense
up and assume the worst?


When people say what their plans are, why do we
think they are wasting their time or doomed?


Our own hearts and minds seem determined to undermine
our own happiness or burden the day.


We don't see even a fraction of what is going on
in the world, and what we do see is filtered through our
ability to comprehend as well as our filters we have
from our limited understanding of our past experiences.


How can we possibly be so unctuous and presumptuous
that we think ourselves capable of comprehending the
make-up of the universe? That we can know what is in
the heart of another human being? That we can glean an
insight into the meaning of life? That we can select the most
accurate philosophy or interpretation of such things?


We imagine ourselves to be the first who will set right
all the yearnings and struggles that all people have had for
centuries. We will select the one true source, the one true
idea, the one perfect example. But perhaps all of this
starts with the assumption that such an absolute exists
in the first place.


Perhaps the human brain is better focused on not
thinking so much. Allowance. Acceptance. Taking
things at face value, even if it brings trouble. Release
of expectation and 'need to know.'

Less absolute, less dogma, less striving.
More contentment, more relaxation, more ephemeral.

There's only one way off the mudball, anyway, so
maybe we can just enjoy the ride, regardless of where
it goes and what it entails. Of course, I'm assuming
that we can change in time for it to matter.


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