WE MUST ERASE THE DIVIDING LINE BETWEEN JUDGMENT AND LOVE

I was in the habit of passing harsh judgments on others at the very first opportunity. My mother told me, before passing judgments on others, to keep in mind that not all scars show and not all wounds heal.

American philosopher and motivational speaker Wayne Dyer remarked, “Judgments prevent us from seeing the good that lies beyond appearances.” Also, if it is imperative then too we must refrain from judging a man’s actions until we know his motives. Despite knowing these pitfalls, many of us judge others, whether deliberately or inadvertently. Some adopt a critical attitude even before we come across people or situations, thus revealing our prejudiced side.

Most of the criticism is done behind people’s backs. In such circumstances, we enjoy finding fault in others. Our judgmental behaviour rests on the fact that we want the other person to remain that way. This reflects very poorly on us.

Instead of merely sitting on judgment we must move from ‘judgment’ towards ‘love’. This can be done by making the other person aware of his shortcomings, albeit never in public. We should suggest corrective measures too. This reformist approach acquires more relevance when we are close to the other person and wish him well. This would also help the latter to iron out his flaws and change for the good. In this way we can erase the dividing line between judgment and love.