In life, it is easy to assume the worst in someone, but this approach to relationships is a recipe for heartache and broken relationships. So why do we do it?
It is about perspective or the lens through which you see the world. If we look at others through a self-centered lens, we tend toward assuming the worst in them. We assume that their actions are deliberate attacks on our person. Our thoughts tend toward being offended due to perceived disrespect or slights.
The better perspective is one of grace and patience. Most people don’t think about us enough to deliberately offend us. Think about it. How many times have you offended someone without any intent to do so?
We are all too busy thinking about ourselves to worry about looking for ways to disrespect others. We do that naturally anyway.
I am most at peace in my relationships when I put myself in other people’s shoes and consider that I’ve made the same mistakes. Remembering that there are many reasons why people do what they do helps me to approach them with patience.
So the next time we are tempted to assume the worst in someone, let’s remember that we’ve probably done the same thing ourselves. There are probably things going on in their lives that led to their actions. And don’t forget, those other things have nothing to do with us.
Who knows? We may help them have a better day by treating them with grace!