Philosopher Bertrand Russell said, "Envy consists in seeing things never in themselves, but only in their relations. If you desire glory, you may envy Napoleon, but Napoleon envied Caesar, Caesar envied Alexander, and Alexander, I daresay, envied Hercules, who never existed." Envy denies us contentment and wastes our time. Great French writer Honore de Balzac said "Envy is the most stupid of vices, for there is no single advantage to be gained from it." We all know people who are smarter, richer, funnier, more talented, or better looking. So what? You were likely not going to attend Harvard or Stanford anyway; what's the use or advantage in being envious of someone who has that opportunity? Being envious also robs us of our appreciation for our own self worth, and our own vital purpose as we focus on someone else's. There's a reason we say 'green with envy'. Green is the color of fertility, and envy certainly grows if we allow it to. It also grows all manner of weeds that choke off our better nature. Caffected couples are noticeable by their complete lack of envy at the others' success, reward, advancement or insight. If you have a story to reinforce this view, we'd love for you to share it. Use the link above and tell your story. Just initials and city, please. Thanks!
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