The quest for understanding our own lives absolutely involves getting to know other people. We cannot develop true discernment without self exploration through the mirror offered by others. This has been called "the Divine Mirror". When looking deeply into it we see all of our beauty and blemishes. We see other people through the filter of self. We might even begin to glimpse the delight that is envisioned by the Creator of it all.
There is great wisdom in the old adage about walking a mile in the shoes of another person. We can never know the life-long effect of the trials and troubles endured by fellow human beings. All we get to see is the snapshot of the momentary encounters that we have. This never offers much depth of experience. We often offer knee jerk reactions and over-reactions in response to annoyances caused by such meetings. Sometimes the exchanges can be unpleasant and troubling.
We always have the opportunity to stop, hesitate and consider prior to taking action. Mentally holding up a mirror to envision our reactions will almost always elicit a different answer to encounters with people. We are able to see ourselves and our actions through the eyes of others. We take the opportunity to envision more than the behavior that is upsetting. A different person is revealed as we look more deeply than the present moment. My own practice is to see each person as a child. It is much harder to be judgmental with a nine year old than with an adult. Try taking the time to look more deeply. The experience will enhance and provide a better understanding of life.
