Reflection

There is a saying, "Behavior is the mirror in which everyone shows their image," and that can be interpreted in behavior as a projection, but it can also mean how others have projected upon us. Keep repeating the same behavior that instigates issues, don't be surprised to see that reflected back in ways that may not be desirable. Improvement begets improvement, rebellion begets rebellion, goodness begets goodness, neglect begets neglect, compassion begets compassion, indiscipline begets indiscipline, support begets support, grace begets grace, so on and so forth.

My mistake is a tendency triggered. Like genes that get switched on or off depending on the environment or circumstances -- the tendency was always there, but historically only gets triggered once another's faulty behavior brims past the boiling point of my patience or threshold, which has always been quite extensive and more tolerant than others, and that is why I tend to stay quiet most of the time, though others have a talent for lacerating me where I bleed the most (figuratively and literally). However, this does not mean I permit to be run over and taken for granted. Aging and maturity may extend that limit, but there is still a limit. And when the imbalance tips too far, it's not surprising that things unravel. Just as I have taken responsibility for my actions, it's important to recognize that no one is immune from fault, because there are always two sides to every story.

And sometimes, looks can be deceiving. What one projects onto others often reflects back, shaping the very dynamics that lead to misunderstanding and missteps, but we should also account for illusions. It's easy to flaunt victories, especially when others have shouldered the burdens that allow for such indulgences. But let's not forget where the foundation of those victories originated from. To disrespect or turn a blind eye to the years of effort behind that is short-sighted and speaks more to self-interest than true success. Respect is a two-way street. Continued disregard and dismissiveness only deepen division, and appearances, no matter how carefully curated, will never replace the truth.

If we seek positive change in others, then we should also start with ourselves. Otherwise, selfish disregard will only lead to uncertainty as well as potential tribulation, affliction, and retribution. Yes no one is perfect, so isolated events here and there can certainly fall within understanding, but a sequence of bombardments can quickly ricochet and transform treatment into mistreatment, potentially instigating a never-ending negative chain reaction. How do you mend that? Try to do good for a change. It would do no harm if we all tried to be thoughtful and considerate, because oftentimes, the perception and action of others, is a reflection of our own.