Contrast and Comparison
To compare has usefulness. To liken, represent as similar. When I am designing things I look to what others are doing all of the time, to learn, adapt, copy. There really is no absolute originality.
To compare as an addiction is dangerous to our esteem and self-worth.
The difference between comparison as learning and compassion as critique lives in the original animating action to compare. When we compare to judge ourselves we stand on the slippery slope of never measuring up, or, in the case of the narcissist, always being superior. There is a gap between the two that has yearning and desire or arrogance and an elevated sense of self.
To contrast we see difference, opportunity, nuance.
I contrast the United States of America and Japan on gun violence. The evidence is overwhelming in every single measure. Death, safety, the need to ever defend. Unfortunately, evidence means naught to so many when put against some ‘inalienable rights.’ It is tragic indeed that people hold their rights above life itself.
Photo taken July 9th 2022
