Why It’s Better Not to Make Judgements.

As I’m now considered a senior in the world out there, I find I’m often labelled, judged and misunderstood. Maybe it’s always been this way and perhaps I’m just noticing it more because I’m a bit touchy about being a senior. The inner me still feels incredibly youthful, awake and aware. It’s just my physical shell that’s ageing and that’s not the real me.

I called about a local core strength building class (yes, for seniors 😜) recently and after getting the relevant info I wanted (not on their website) the woman I spoke with asked for my name and ph number – I’m ok with that and supplied both but then she innocently said ‘would you have an email address?’  I’m surprised she didn’t add ‘dear’ at the end of her question! (a woman in my local library actually says that and uses an exaggerated tone in her voice!)

I immediately felt somewhat annoyed and insulted that just because I’m enquiring about a seniors class, she automatically assumes I may be living in the dark ages and not internet friendly! I ignored my aggravated feelings and just gave her one of my email addresses. If I’d wanted to inform her otherwise, I could have told her I’ve been using the internet and email since it first became available (in Aust) for public use in the early 90’s and as soon as dial up disappeared and we had faster internet access, I built my own WordPress blog and started an online business.

There’s a lot of super smart, vibrantly alive seniors out there and I’m one of them!

I’m not a fan of judgements, as you may have gathered. Whenever I catch myself making judgements in my thinking, of myself or others (we all do it!) I stop immediately and turn my thoughts to kindness and understanding. Sometimes it takes more effort but keep at it. If I judge myself it’s being unkind and if I judge others, it’s not only unkind but it’s usually based on our own beliefs, and not the truth. Judging ourselves is often not the truth either,  but a belief in what we’ve been taught about ourselves over many years by parents, teachers, the media etc.

Judgements can hurt people and bring unhappiness to others and ourselves. As a society, we judge people because we don’t think they’re good enough or, even when we think they’re too good. We judge people on how they look, speak, act and these outer fundamentals have little to do with who we really are. Our inner, higher self is actually perfect and the more we tap into this with a quiet mind, particularly through meditation, the more we see ourselves and others without judgement.

Buddhism teachings encourage people to recognise that inner being in everyone we encounter. To see and acknowledge the spiritual being first and foremost and to use compassion, empathy and understanding that everyone is simply living their life trying to be happy, no matter how much it may appear they’ve lost their way.

Imagine a world where we didn’t judge and simply accepted, without conditions. This isn’t to say we turn our backs on societal requirements in order to keep the peace and provide a healthy living environment for all, but maybe we could turn our minds to trying to understand people and their ways a little more.

Many people are troubled and suffering and if we learn to judge less and apply more acceptance, understanding and true kindness, Every Day Gets Better. ❤️

❤️ With thanks to BrainyQuote for the lovely image of Wayne Dyer’s wise words.