A jealous person is doubly unhappy-over what he has, which is judged inferior, and over which he has not, which is judged superior. Such a person is doubly removed from knowing the true blessing of creation.
Interpretation
Jealousy causes unhappiness by making a person focus on what they lack and their perceived inferiority.
This quote by Desmond Tutu highlights the destructive nature of jealousy. A jealous individual experiences dual suffering: they lament their own possessions, viewing them as inferior to what others have, while simultaneously yearning for what those others possess, seeing it as superior. This mindset prevents them from appreciating and recognizing the true value and blessings present in their own life, leading to a skewed perspective on existence and happiness.
In practice
During a motivational talk about self-acceptance, this quote can be used to illustrate the dangers of jealousy.
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George Washington, as a boy, was ignorant of the commonest accomplishments of youth. He could not even lie.
It is good to follow one's own bent, so long as it leads upward.
The Sting of a reproach, is the Truth of it.
I have found out in later years that we were very poor, but the glory of America is that we didn't know it then.
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