Why do we get jealous?
It’s inevitable, really.
Because for a time, in one way or another, we all feel it.
She’s so much skinnier than me. *pout*
He has a summer house he never even uses. *scowl*
They pop out a kid every other year. *eye roll*
Why, Dear Reader, can’t we simply be happy for other people?
Why does the success of others always spark an evaluation–and often an unfair comparison–of our own lives?
In all honesty, there are many things I want:
copper-red hair; to be a stay-at-home mom; a farmhouse; a New York City apartment; to teach high school again; an Anthropologie-exclusive wardrobe; to be published; all of the Burt’s Bees products ever made.
The list goes on.
So when we see someone’s Instagram Story–one of adventure, beauty, and wine on the beach–it’s a reminder of what we want, but do not yet have.
And sometimes, that hurts.
Because there are only so many hours in the day, love.
So when will our glory days arrive?
The only answer I have to this existential question is a short and simple one:
Take a goddamn chance.
Do it.
Seize every moment.
And while our goal may yet be out of reach, let’s enjoy the small stuff.
For surely we all have something to celebrate:
dozens of books on the shelf; a clean bill of health; summer vacation plans.
And when we see other people happy?
Let’s remember that they’re on a journey all their own. They’ve had hard days, and heartbreak, and pain.
So let’s vow to wish them well.
Let’s vow to live simply, gratefully, and with compassion.
For better days are ahead.
With love,
SnapDragon X.
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What are your thoughts on jealousy, Dear Reader? What makes you jealous? And how do you turn jealousy into productivity?
. . .
SnapDragon is an irreverent artist who just wants to live her best life, yo. (And possibly move to Finland.) Follow her Two-Bit Musings and more on snippetsofsnapdagon.com