This morning, in beautiful Maui, I read an awesome quote by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar:
Nothing in the world can bother you as much as your own mind, I tell you.
In fact, others seem to be bothering you, but it is not others, it is your own mind.
I believe this to be true. Although we may say or feel that someone bothered us…or hurt our feelings…this can never be true. It is only possible for us to do that to ourselves. We must take personal responsibility for our reactions. Although someone may be impolite or inconsiderate, we chose how we internalize those emotions. I am of the opinion that wise individuals simply ignore rude behaviors. There is nothing to forgive if we don’t acknowledge that it even happened.
Besides, how do you ever expect to become polished if you are irritated by every rub? ;)
When reflecting on the beauty of the world, I’m constantly reminded that it doesn’t even matter :)
Photo source: Foamy spray (Maui, Hawaii) by Jonathan Ault