Comparison is the thief of joy

 

Comparison.  It is something we all do now and then ~ compare our possessions, compare our life stories, compare our gains and losses.  In fact with social media it is hard not to do right?  Don't we have the opportunity to see every one's highlight reel and say, "Wow!!  Look at what she just accomplished.  How come I'm not "that accomplished", "that stylish", "that successful", "that FILL IN THE BLANK".

This weekend I participated in Portland Oregon's "Race for the Roses".  I fast walked the 10K.  My reason for doing the race?  I have another race that is coming up in August (Portland to Coast -- the World's Longest Relay Race) and they require a 10 K time for seeding the race teams. While waiting to start I observed the crowd of thousands waiting as well.  There were teenagers and there were seniors and everyone in between. There were elite athletes and beginners and I thought about how much I enjoy this race every year.  Everyone is there for their own personal reason.  Like I said, I was there to get my official timed pace (as was another lady I met along the course). I'm sure there were people there who were there because a friend made them go, others who were trying to get a personal best on their time, and others who did it for the first time and those who did it for the social aspect.  One guy showed up dressed as a pirate!! I still want to know his "story"!

Our course through life is very much the same as those who showed up to the race on Sunday morning.  Everyone has their own personal journey they are taking for their own personal reasons.  When you compare yourself in any way to others, you are traveling off course.   You see, their experiences, choices, success and failure isn't meant for you. It is meant specifically for them. To get them to where they need to be. So the next time you catch yourself comparing....STOP...Take a moment and realize that the only thing in that moment you are doing is stealing the joy from your life.

You are good enough, strong enough, smart enough.........Don't forget that. EVER!