Realities for reflection 89: Envy

They have credited David with ten thousands, but they have credited me with thousands. And what else does he lack but the kingdom? From that day forward Saul regarded David with suspicion. 1 Samuel 18:8-9

Saul might have repented of such feelings and thoughts, and might have sincerely rejoiced with this young Hebrew who gave a great triumph to Israel, and, therefore, to his own government, but he did not. He let envy take root in his heart and he had no peace again. In the years to come he would take it upon himself to make David's life miserable, even to the point of plotting his own death.

Envy is one of the most secret evils that infect the human heart. That deep restlessness or sadness for the good of others is a disease that corrodes the soul and does not allow man to perceive with pleasure even his own reality. It is born in the selfishness that does not admit to rejoice with more well-being than one's own, and generates an insurmountable barrier of bitterness and rivalry with fellow men. We could say that there is a “healthy” envy that is not evil and that is expressed in the recognition of something or someone that is worthy of being exalted.

Whoever hurts you makes you strong, whoever criticizes you makes you important, whoever envies you makes you valuable, and whoever rejects you does you a favor!

“One should examine oneself a long time before thinking of condemning others.” Molière.

They demand sincerity from you, but are offended if you tell them the truth. So what do I do: do I offend you out of sincerity or do I lie to you out of politeness?

Never worry about those who hate you, rather worry about those who pretend to love you.