If you judge (a thing/event/person) to be “good,” then there must naturally be a “bad.” The path to inner peace is one of non-judgment.
The Case for Neutrality (and Acceptance)
judgment
How to Cultivate Presence
Bring more present moment awareness into your life. Start with small, every day activities. Instead of indulging in thinking (as you cook, take out the garbage, shower)…be present. Be sensory aware. Feel the energy in your body. Be aware of your surroundings. All it takes is 30 seconds and everyone has 30 seconds.
Eckhart Tolle
Hollyhocks Are Diverse
The difference between a weed and a flower is judgment.
Unknown
Tug O’ War
It takes two to keep it going.
Rumination
I used to “meditate” incorrectly. I closed my eyes and focused on being aware of my surroundings and my thoughts. I noticed my thoughts and tried to “let them go.” But my thoughts were either judgments or I was judging my thoughts (!) I assumed I was meditating correctly, because I was quite aware of everything…however, I was placing opinion on all of it.
Being present (meditating) means being aware of everything in the present time without judgment.
If you’re like me, you’d be shocked at how much you judge yourself and others. With practice, you can minimize placing personal value on yourself and others. I catch myself doing it and am able to correct it.
Criticizing is the opposite of kindness and impedes inner peace.
I’m Glad I Asked
He came in the second day without his backpack. I resisted the urge to roll my eyes and sigh. How can a 5th grader forget his backpack? Didn’t he feel like something was missing?
Instead, I asked him to walk me through his morning. Maybe I could help him.
“I pack my things and walk to the garage. I put my backpack down and get my little sister. Then I strap her into her car seat. I guess I forgot to get my backpack. ”
My irritation became empathy and respect.
This illustrates why judging others can be harmful – to others and ourselves. We each have our own cross to bear.
Kismet 