I understand that judgment is human nature. It has always been one of those things I cringe at in others. I’m not talking about using good judgment here. I’m referring to the many layers of how judgment is used to measure someone or something. It is an automatic response that promotes comparison and superiority. We must become mindful of its presence in order to move in the opposite direction towards acceptance, compassion, and understanding. What I have learned throughout my healing years is that recognizing it in others is only the first step. Yikes! I began seeing all of the ways I, too, stood in judgment…like judging those who were judging others. What a vicious circle that is! As I began to reflect and heal the layers of judgment I had, I turned to Artemisia Titepati, a beautiful, pungent essence, to assist me:
Surrender to the unconditional love of the Universe. People have many threads of judgment holding them back from experiencing this love completely. Each time you become aware of judging, name it and recognize it as it is no longer serving your higher purpose. Cut that cord. Remember each person is on their own journey and it doesn’t mean they are worse than you or behind in their evolvement. It just is what it is. Send them loving thoughts. This is how you will begin to experience the unconditional love of the Universe.
I realized I had been judging a dear friend of mine. She was someone I admired and had been a beautiful teacher in my life. This time she was bringing me a different kind of lesson, unbeknown to her. She, too, is on a healing path and isn’t perfect. I was reminded of how much I allowed her comments and feelings to disturb my peace. This led to an internal judgment battle. I learned through this experience that instead of me standing in judgment of her journey, I could bless her and send her love for showing me how we approach our businesses differently. No judgment. Just recognition. I also learned a healthier way to deflect those situations is to protect myself by placing a shield of Divine love around me. When I feel loved and confident, others’ remarks won’t have the opportunity to take hold.
When I began my healing journey, I learned the Serenity Prayer … “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.” This beautiful gift the universe taught me is that in true acceptance of the things I cannot change (others), I am free from the lure of judgment. Of course, I’ve had multiple opportunities to practice this lesson and continue to return to it as needed.
I encourage you to take time to notice when you are caught in the trap of judging others. This may take practice. Be open to humbly examining your thoughts and messages. Reflect on the following questions:
Just because this is true for me, does it mean it must be true for others?
How can I see _____ through the eyes of love and compassion?
Does my way of perceiving this have to be the right way? Why?
“In nature, nothing is perfect and everything is perfect. Trees can be contorted, bent in weird ways, and they’re still beautiful.” Alice Walker