How do You Know.... If Others Are Purposefully Harming You?

Do you feel at times that people do things out of an intent to harm you? Does it seem that those you live and work with are purposely sabotaging or are not appreciative of your best efforts? Are you beginning to feel paranoid? As one colleague expressed tongue-in-cheek, "I wouldn't be so paranoid if everyone wasn't against me!" Sometimes it's felt this way to me.

But after thoughtful examination, I don't think so. We give people too much credit! It takes forethought and planning to viciously scale an attack against another. Most people, in the rush of the day, simply don't put that much energy into such endeavors. What we name as espionage is more likely neglect or unthinking persons stuck in the rut of organizations that do not take into consideration caring for individual needs. These individuals are not purposely sabotaging our efforts, but instead they may simply be unthinking. Out of their own ignorance of the situation, they unknowingly make decisions that are not in our best interest. They hold others in "unregard" and don't think before they act. They don't take the time to ask,"Who else will this effect?"

My hope is that on our best days, we are individuals who strives to operate out of goodness and love. We make the choice to err on the side of love and grace. That is, when examining other's actions, I'd rather extend to him or her extend a reasonable doubt that they did not mean it, than automatically suspect them of acting out of selfishness, greed or vindictiveness. It is my belief that people are essentially good. Individuals may simply be thoughtless, but not evil.

So, this week I will express outward appreciation of other's efforts. I will assume that they did not mean to hurt me. I will slow down and acknowledge the people in my work life and at home. I will show personal concern within my organizations. I will inquire instead of act out of ignorance that may unknowingly wound. I will hold others in high regard. I will trust once again. 

Can you do this with me? What do you think?