Do you notice how some people always seem to, or have to, be right, whereas others are constantly apologising for being wrong? There is constant judgement of each other in this dualistic world – right or wrong; good or bad. Many of these judgements stem from expectations of us from parents and teachers in childhood. We were taught what was expected of us to qualify as ‘good’. Anything else was ‘bad’. We, in turn, applied this to others and found that they also judged us. In a desperate attempt to be seen as ‘good’ and, by association, loveable, we judged ourselves harshly. Some strive for perfection throughout life as a result. Our schooling is geared to tests and examinations, leading to success or failure. Many feel the injustices and inadequacies of the system that seeks to grade us. Failure to meet predicted grades and expectations gives rise to great anxiety and resentments at a tender age.
In later life, the pressures of careers, responsibilities and relationships can be exacerbated by this drive to be perfect. Surprisingly, the antidote can be found in the practice of humility. In humility there is no expectation of success. Accomplishment comes naturally, unthreatened by what is said by others. Released from the expectations of others and myself, I can be free to express and enjoy myself in the experience to the best of my being, without judgement.
Everything is just as it is meant to be.
That’s Perfection…how ironic!