Envy, Social Comparison and the Communities We Build
I originally wrote this reflection from observations within my own African community. But envy, jealousy, social comparison and fractured relationships do not belong to one culture, race or community. They are human experiences.
Why Social Comparison Matters
Social comparison is part of how people evaluate themselves in relation to others. Depending on the person and circumstances, comparison can encourage aspiration and growth, or contribute to feelings such as inadequacy, resentment and envy.
That distinction matters.
When Comparison Replaces Collaboration
When comparison replaces collaboration, any community — a family, friendship group, workplace, creative circle, faith community or culture — can become more concerned with who appears to be ahead than with what people might build together.
I have witnessed versions of that dynamic within my own community, which is where this reflection began. But the wider question is universal:
What happens when another person’s progress is experienced as a threat rather than a possibility?
Choosing Collaboration Over Envy
For me, the alternative is collaboration. Someone else’s light does not extinguish mine. Friendship should make room for prosperity, opportunity and growth — including the growth of the people standing beside us.
My heart is true. My intentions are pure. I have no need for greedy, grabbing or stunt-queen moves.
Love, Faith and Knowing Your Worth
I love sincerely, cuz God is love. I am blessed to the glory of love, and I don’t need their evil to make me feel good.
I was made good from my mothers womb. What God has blessed can not be unblessed. Love is golden. It has never lost, yet.
That’s why I know my worth.
Fake Friendship and the Trap of Comparison
When you see a fake kite flying in the sky at night, there’s no need to compare it to an aeroplane, cuz you know it won’t get very far. Sooner or later, it will fade away, into oblivion.
Stay True to Who You Are
So stay, true, stay you and do you. Many were truely called, but very few were lovingly, chosen; for the greater good, of love.
God is love. Theres nothing above love.
#Aremuorin More @ https://Aremuorin.meProduced by Aremuorin What’s your view? Share this reflection with someone who may need it. If this work has blessed you, you can also support the work here.
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Aremuorin — artist, songwriter, producer and writer exploring music, faith, culture and the human experience. Explore more from Aremuorin.
