“Envy comes from people’s own ignorance of, or lack of belief in their own gifts.” ~ Jean Vanier
Originally published between 2015 and 2018, this post has been updated but preserves its original publish date as best as possible as content is migrated from the archives of The Flavored Word.
Oddly enough, jealousy isn’t an emotion I’ve often been afflicted with. I mean sure, when I was younger, I used to wish I was part of The Royal Family … but then as years passed, I wised up to the fact that even kings and queens, princes and princesses have troubles. I suppose, however, that I’ve always been envious of the Rockefellers, the Vanderbilts, the Carnegies … but, similar to royalty, the über rich are far from problem free and as I’ve matured, I’ve noted that the more money I have the more I spend anyway.
And there used to be a time when I literally despised women with long, svelte legs—think Jerry Hall. But, thanks to a fabulous ad campaign by NIKE I soon came to understand that it was my gigantic hamstrings that helped promote my successful running career. Without these legs, I never would have been able to run fast … never. And it was these legs of mine that not only earned me the “Best Legs in School” award but also propelled me to break records on the track—both of which, I have to admit, I’m equally proud of.
But. I am not immune to jealousy. In fact, as of late I have found myself increasingly envious of the young … and I seethe when I watch talent go to waste. Sometimes I can’t help but think, “If only I had had that opportunity.” Whatever it may have been. But then again, I think I probably did have the world at my feet back then, I just wasn’t old enough to realize it yet.
And maybe that’s just it? Maybe it’s the ability to make decisions without worrying about the finality of choice that I envy … maybe.
Still, when it comes right down to it, I don’t lament too much for that which I don’t have. I don’t pine away thinking, “If only …” Because I know better. Because I know better. BECAUSE I KNOW BETTER. Funny thing, someone contacted me on Facebook who I knew in high school but haven’t talked to much since, and you know what he asked? The proverbial “Hey, how are you … whatcha been doing all these years …” and then, “You still have those fabulous legs of yours?” To which I replied, “Hell yes.” Thank you very much Nike!
OK, OK, so I don’t exactly have “thunder” tights, but I used to think I did and sometimes, the mere thought of inadequacy is enough to haunt even the most sensible of folks.
Cover image created with Google AI.
DISCLAIMER: I’m a writer and an editor. And I try my best to make sure every post is articulate and free from errors. However, being that I edit my own work—and it’s next to impossible to properly edit your own work—I admit, occasionally there may be an error or two I miss. But doing so doesn’t make me an idiot so don’t be mean. Just smile, pat yourself on the back for finding an error and be glad you’re not the only one who makes mistakes sometimes … xoxox
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