Why do we prejudge an individual based on outward appearance? We observe someone who is socially awkward or unique in one way or a homeless man, and immediately we prejudge them without even recognizing we do so. We think we know who they are with a quick observation or conversation. Can we truly know someone based on first impressions?
Can you determine the history of an individual based on first impressions? Can you determine an individual’s problems and insecurities based on first impressions? Can you determine arrogance by simply observing, or can you read between the lines and figure out shyness?
Some of us are intuitive and better at reading people or situations, however, we cannot know someone from a simple observation or conversation. If you knew the story behind the demeanour, or attitude, would you still judge?
In other words, would you mock or insult an individual’s awkwardness, if you knew he had traumatic brain damage or a serious brain disease? Would you mock or insult an individual because of his shuffling walk if you knew he suffered from a serious debilitating condition?
Most people wouldn’t be so cruel if they understood the origin of the problem and the traumatic condition. That is called compassion. The reason you understand and feel compassion towards your loved ones, is because you know their story. Everyone else has a story, you’re simply looking at the surface and not at the root of the identity.
Let’s say you had a loved one who had become bitter and resentful towards others, however, you understood him and witnessed his caring personality. You knew his demeanour was the result of being severely mistreated and you knew he had all types of tribulations in his life. Would you still see him as a good-hearted individual, because you understand the reason for his demeanour? Think of a bystander who doesn’t know him personally, but recognizes his bitter personality. Can we agree that most bystanders under these circumstances would prejudge?
Every person you meet has a reason for who they are today. We may not understand them, but if we can understand our loved ones, we can make an effort to understand every other person as well. Using our past or challenges to be bitter or cruel shouldn’t be an excuse, however, we should acknowledge the fact that some people aren’t as fortunate as us.
We look at others and contemplate in our minds whether we should give them any of our time. If our favourite musician or favourite actor was in front of us, we’d give them our undivided attention. What if a homeless man was standing before us? Who needs acceptance and appreciation more than the other, the well-known musician or the homeless man?
We tell ourselves, the homeless man probably made some poor choices, so that gives us a reason to ignore them or be arrogant with them. Is there a wealthy man in the world who is perfect with no flaws?
Everyone is struggling with something, for some people it’s paying their bills on times, for others, it’s greed and deception. Is one weakness greater than the other? We’re all in the game of life trying to figure things out. Some of us are on the streets trying to find a job while others have the most prestigious jobs, but got there through deceiving people.
Let’s not prejudge others by putting ourselves on a pedestal of better or worse. Is life a competition? As long as life is a competition, there will always be a loser, hence there will always be someone left behind.
We are all one and we all come from the same source, which created the universe. Whatever you do for one person, you just helped everyone who is connected to that individual, as we are all interconnected in one way or another.
Let’s remove the labels and remember the most recognized scripture, “Love your brothers and sisters as you love yourself.” A person shouldn’t receive special treatment because of his or her appearance or wealth. If they get special treatment, it should be because they are good-hearted people. Anything else is not recognizing what truly matters in life.
Rather than reacting to our preconceived notions, let’s create a world where acceptance is determined by a person’s values, kind nature and needs, not physical attributes that are irrelevant to who we are.
