SEEING THROUGH OTHERS' EYES

How you look at yourself is not always how others perceive you to be. If you need to improve and develop yourself, it is equally important to consider the opinion of others about you. The dirt in your eyes or a stain at the back of your dress can only be known by you if others tell you about it. It is only when you become aware of unbecoming spots about yourself that you can do something about them.

From time to time, we need others to mirror us and to show us how we are growing and maturing. Not all assessments of ourselves can be taken as valid. We need confirmation from others, too. It makes a big difference if the knowledge of yourself can still be enriched, modified, and shaped through the constructive feedback of others.

A shared thought.

PERSONAL PERCEPTION

Different people have different perception. One man's meat could be another man's poison.

A couple bought a donkey from the market. On the way home, a boy commented, "Very stupid. Why neither of them rides on the donkey? "Upon hearing that, the husband let the wife ride on the donkey. He walked besides them. Later, an old man saw it and commented, "The husband is the head of family. How can the wife ride on the donkey while the husband is on foot?" Hearing this, the wife quickly got down and let the husband ride on the donkey.

Further on the way home, they met an old Lady. She commented, "How can the man ride on the donkey but let the wife walk. He is no gentleman." The husband thus quickly asked the wife to join him on the donkey. Then, they met a young man. He commented, "Poor donkey, how can you hold up the weight of two persons. They are cruel to you." Hearing that, the husband and wife immediately climbed down from the donkey and carried it on their shoulders. It seems to be the only choice left. Later, on a narrow bridge, the donkey was frightened and struggled. They lost their balance and fell into the river.

You can never have everyone praise you, nor will everyone condemn you. Never in the past, not at present, and never will be in the future. Thus, do not be too bothered by others words if our conscience is clear.

Arnel, thanks, it is truly an eye opener! The lesson, always use your own personal judgment.