We. Are. Selfish.
It’s not always a bad thing. It’s self-preservation.
I can accept that. I even understand that. These last few weeks, I’ve noticed a lot of interactions between people. There have been some things in particular that have irked me and inspired this blog. My thoughts have been marinating for a while, so I knew sooner or later, I'd have to put them into words. When someone is joyful and happy about something, why must others steal their joy? Why do people feel the need to question, pressure, push, be harsh, etc. when all the other person needs is someone to share their happiness with? Why can’t we just let those who are joyful - who are excited and happy - ENJOY IT? Celebrate! Celebrate it with them. (Celebrate good times, C'mon!) Annnnnd, there's the Kool and the Gang reference...(I knew you were waiting for it.)
“You know, the ancient Egyptians had a beautiful belief about death. When their souls got to the entrance of heaven, the guards asked two questions. Their answers determined whether they were able to enter or not. Have you found joy in your life? Has your life brought joy to others?”
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How about, “I’m happy for you.” Or, “Congratulations.” Perhaps, “I know you’ve been waiting for this, it’s a big deal!” Maybe, "Awesome!" And look, maybe it’s not that awesome to you. Maybe it’s not a big deal to YOU. Maybe you have questions. Maybe you're jealous. Maybe you're upset about something in your life, or annoyed at something they've done to you. But for a moment, in their time of joy, would it be the worst thing in the world to honor it or acknowledge it? To say, I’m happy you found this! I’m glad you are smiling! Your happiness/success makes me smile.
If you're important enough to them to share it with you, at least acknowledge it. Then you can let it go. Don't dampen their spirits with your own agenda. Don't make it about you. It's theirs. Not yours.
The next time someone expresses their happiness and their joy to you, just celebrate it with them. Even if it’s only for a moment. GIVE THEM THAT MOMENT. It may only come once.
And maybe next time, they will celebrate your moment with you.
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