The human condition is universal however how we process it is not. I have found new depths to the adage hard times build character not because of the struggle, but because uncomfortable situations force one to look in the mirror, to examining one's self. I have found this to be not only the beginning of growth but how growth is sustained of. It is, in my opinion, necessary to look oneself in the mirror not once, but often—to ensure we are indeed becoming the person who we desire to become.
Up until recently, I had little care for “political correctness”. I have long held the belief that being “politically correct” was indicative of weakness. However, through myself reflection with the backdrop of the human condition, it has become clear that while the human condition is universal, how each individual processes it is unique. In that very moment it dawned on me that politically correctness is not weakness but empathy, maybe even if at its finest, as it is an effort to reach someone with without offending them through ignorance. Because the human reality is, the very minute you offend someone you invite pull back, tension that can sever the line of communication, obfuscate belonging—Progress delayed because of petty. Does this mean backing away from difficult topics or not being honest and open discussing it? No. It means approaching it in a way that others can digest and understand. At the end of the day, if what is being communicated is not understood, it undermines all efforts and benefits none: Dialogue dissipate leaving behind meaningless diatribe dregs.
How did I arrive here? Struggle, self-examination, contemplation, and meditation—the human condition. In dark moments thoughts found the dirt, seeds of emotion were transplanted. The weight I bore, sunk me into a hole: space to be. When the pressure busted the pipes the water my decaying roots got a second life… thoughts grew into action, mostly writing that lead me face to face with the mirror again. This time I saw more than my reflection, I realized I was not accountable to me, not practicing what I "preach"—Growth was wild and uncontrolled. I saw wilts that required discipline for healing. I realized what growth meant for me and the riches to be had from true self understanding. This is my outcome. Yours may well be different, but it will start with self-examination—the mile markers along life’s marathon.
