[Antemeridian]

There are a few points on this I'd like to contribute.

As far as the original article, I'd largely have to agree. This actually reminds me of a time in high school (probably a little over 10 years ago now, I guess) when a band director who was a large influence on me said something along the same lines. Basically, when you recognize something, whether it be good or bad, in another person or in music, etc., then you're really recognizing it in yourself. That's something I've kept in my mind since then, and this article further expands on the idea, and I very much enjoyed it.

Now, the second point I wanted to make was this. Reading the article and these posts, I've also thought that this is a tool to use when dealing with others as well. In some cases, it can be easier to understand where certain behaviours are coming from if you look at other people's actions towards you in the same way. Now, this is taking things a step further away, which means that it may not be accurate, or might be too subjective, but its an interesting way to further extrapolate.

For example, and if this seems a little convoluted, I apologize, I'm working as I go here:

A friend/colleague of yours has been complaining to you about certain things, perhaps commenting over how they feel you aren't being ambitious enough in your career advancement goals. Thus, you may be able to infer that they may be unhappy with their own drive for success. Now, depending on your situation, you may be able to do something to help, you may not, but at the very least, you may now have a better understanding of the person you are working with, and what they are thinking and feeling. And, when tied into the previous article on gratitude, you may now find it easier to feel grateful for the person complaining or commenting, as you can see deeper into the situation.

I guess if I worked with the article's example, it would be that Erin would understand that Steve was really, unknowingly unhappy with his own level of organization if he started commenting on how she should become more organized.

Hmmm . . . not sure if that's making a whole lot of sense, but I'll put the thought out there, as perhaps as a group people will be able to make more of it rather than my own ramblings . . .

Thanks,

Adam