Equal and Opposite Reactions

Photo by Sunder Muthukumaran on Unsplash

A Physics review: for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. The force with which you throw a ball against a wall determines the velocity at which it will return. 

Consider this: the same is true of the emotions we put out into the world. 

For instance: someone cuts you off.

• Option a) That jerk cut you off, so now you’ll wind up being a jerk in somebody else’s day. 

• Option b) get compassionate and ask yourself, “what could that person be in such a rush to get to?” That compassion will inevitably weave itself into your interactions with others (& yourself). 

What does Option A require of you? Not much. No control. No compassion. No curiosity. You get to stay inside of the little bubble that exists within your vehicle, stay in your mind, and stay angry. 

Option B requires a bit more. It asks you to hold an empathetic & other-minded perspective. One that extends beyond your immediate surroundings and experience.

If your default reaction is…