We are never more discontented with others than when we are discontented with ourselves. ~Henri Frederic Amiel
My friend Sally posted this on Facebook earlier, and being one that loves quotations, I swiped it from her. I also happen to like things that cause me to pause, and consider the words carefully and how they apply to my own life.
I took some time to think back on moments in my own life when I’ve been discontent with others in my surroundings, and true as this quotation, during those moments it was not others that I was ‘truely’ discontent with, but indeed myself.
There are often times that I find myself ‘prickly’ with Marcel, and later I find myself wondering what that was all about. I usually dismiss it, but thinking back, I realize that those are the times when I’m not satisfied with something in my life- either results of choices I’ve made, or feeling frustrated about various things- all of which have nothing at all to do with him or anyone else, but Me, Myself, and I.
After reading this, I’ve decided that I want to be more aware of WHY I’m reacting to certain things in regards to other people. Is it that I’m REALLY discontent with them, or is it ME?
I’m going to make a conscious effort for one week (I can do anything for a week), and see what happens. It can’t hurt- and I challenge you to do the same, and report your findings here.