Key words and phrases:
context: the form in which a word or phrase is used
bile: an acidic liquid produced in the liver to help with digestion
keep (someone) abreast of: to stay up-to-date on a subject
inadvertently: without intention, accidentally
instinct: something that comes naturally, not learned
to name a few: to mention a few things, but the list is much longer
To any environmentalists who may be listening, please don’t be upset with this month’s title. In this context, “green” is not related to saving the earth; instead, it is about being envious. To be “green with envy” is an expression that refers to someone who is jealous of another person because of something they have or something that they are doing. The reference to “jealously as being green” comes from literature, in fact from Shakespeare himself. In the book Othello, jealously is described as a “green-eyed monster.” Over time, people believed that jealously caused the overproduction of bile in the stomach that caused a person’s skin to turn green.
In this month’s installment, I thought the topic of envy was something worth discussing because it is indeed a monster that brings a person nothing good. In today’s world of social media, people love to post things about themselves. To be sure, social media has some great benefits like keeping friends and family abreast of what you are doing, sharing family photos, pets, vacations, anything and everything. On the other hand, people can inadvertently or intentionally post images that showcase their lifestyle in a way that others will naturally envy; and, therein lies the danger.
Envy is a feeling that comes naturally. It is one of the most basic of human instincts. It can, if left unchecked, become a poison that can leave us feeling bad about ourselves. So, how do we avoid this self-destructive feeling? The good news is that overcoming it is easier than you may think, and, it gets easier with practice.
Let’s look at some tips to get you on the right path. First, remind yourself of the people and things that bring you true happiness. Spend more time with those people, the people who share similar values to yours. Remind yourself often of the good things that you have in your own life. Health, a comfortable living space, a supportive family, loving friends, and good colleagues, to name a few. By shifting your focus to the good in your life, you will not have much time to think about what others are doing.
Let me end with a simple message from Charles Shulz, creator of Charlie Brown and Snoopy. “I don’t have time to worry about who doesn’t like me…I’m too busy loving the people who love me.”
Wishing you health and happiness, always.
Mark Tofflemire
Tailor Made Inc.
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