Awareness 2: The Other Person

We are all people.

Most of us seem to forget this, and in our ignorance we demean our humanity. If we hurt another, we hurt ourselves, because ultimately, no matter what excuse is given, what justification used, what reason employed, you have just hurt another person who is at their base exactly like you.

Look in another's mirror, and see not yourself, but them. We must see ourselves in the other person to truly understand how to act. This awareness of our humanity is absolutely essential to all human beings. It helps us to understand our brother's and sister's actions, and helps to put in perspective their views.

Because while at our base we are all the same, we all walk very different paths to realizing how me can fulfill our potential. When anger flares, and tempers rise, we must step back, look in that other person's mirror, and realize that it is we who are standing there.

Empathy is only a fraction of this. Because not only must we understand the other person, but also live them. To truly give compassion, and I cannot stress this enough, we must first show it.

We are all people, and in our differences we often cross each other. The fires of being attacked flare, and we react with the hate we are shown. The golden rule at its worst. Reach not for that which you have been shown, but that which you have dreamt of. If the other person is you, you must think what you would want to have done for you in that situation. This is not about weakness, for in our compassion we are building, and creation is the strongest of all forces.

Sometimes, we stare at the mirror, and project ourselves there even though we know we should not. We must become our enemy, for ultimately, they are our friend. If we hate another so deeply, then we only hate ourselves, and in that hate we bring on fear and weakness and desire and anger and all the vices of a person solely contained within "I."

It is not about me, but about you. This mentality and mindset will calm you in the deepest throes of anguish. When we stop in our lives to really remember to look in the mirror and see the reflection of you, we remember our respect, and become accountable for all.

Responsibility is big, and it does not come immediately. It comes from building with you, and when you begin to realize that you are me, then we can really begin to build something wondrous.

Think of the reflection of you, not your I, but the you you see in others. When we take a simple break to think of why we are the other person, we realize that everyone is an other person. And in doing so, we begin to sew the seeds of calm, compassionate understanding.

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Awareness Challenge 1: Compliment Freely.

Find different ways to encourage those you know. Show them the respect you think they deserve. When you see a person do something you like, tell them. If someone you know has just accomplished something big or done something great, let them know, even if you do not like them. Shake their hand, if it is so appropriate. Give compliments and smiles. Maybe even a hug, if you think it is to be deserved. These simple acts of kind acknowledgement can really brighten a person's day and disposition. Be genuine in your wishes, however. Faked love is not love. Do this, show this little compassion that all people enjoy and people will begin to see that other person in you.