MIRROR...MIRROR...

     Other people in our lives are the mirrors by which we see ourselves. When a person says, or, does, a thing that we are uncomfortable with, something that hurts our feelings, or, offends us in any way, these are the moments that we need look inward; for our reaction to such stimuli is about us, and, can be an opportunity for growth, or, a lesson learned, when we choose to accept this truth.The actions, words, or, deeds, of others can bring about a response from us, negative or positive, only if we allow; and, our reaction(s) indicate how willing we are to look inward. If our reaction is to get angry with the party responsible for our perceived upset, rather than to allow for the possibility that, perhaps, we may need to dig deep and attempt understanding why it is we feel 'attacked', we may continue, in the same vein, reacting, always the same, in similar situations; this repeated, reaction, undoubtedly, the result of blaming another for our 'hurt', rather than deciphering why it is that we allow for pain. Looking inward is a bit of a challenge, and, at times, can cause more upset to us than ANYTHING another human-being can be responsible for; but, Hey...no PAIN, no GAIN, right? For this reason, folks will often find themselves blaming another for the uncomfortable feelings that they may be experiencing; for it's easier to look outside ourselves, and, to expect others to change for us, rather than to work at change in ourselves. We can't be hurt, unless we give another 'permission' to do that to us. When we grow to understand ourselves, love ourselves, and, embrace ourselves, it is very unlikely that others can have any power over us; thus, what they say, think, or feel about us, is nothing more than their opinion. So...the next time you feel yourself reacting, negatively, to something another person is expressing to you, challenge yourself to not get angry; instead, ask yourself why it is you feel the way you do; this, being an exercise in personal-growth. Eventually, you can evolve to a place where you're, basically, 'immune' to the actions of others. Keep in mind that others only mirror back to us how we feel inside, ourselves. When you know yourself, accept who you are, and, take full responsibility for your own happiness you'll LOVE who you see, reflected back, from ANY mirror you stand before. Just Sayin'...