comparison is the thief of joy

You’ll be blown away by how wonderful and comfortable life is if you just ask yourself, “Would this be pleasant without comparison?”

It’s hard breaking that cycle, of constantly comparing yourself to other people, to what you think you should be doing in this life.

So I appreciate this little reminder I got from someone who took time to make sure I felt seen, that I’m not alone.

It’s easy to get caught up in the season of change, that we tell ourselves we will be better, that this year will be different. As a teacher, I have a hard time separating the calendar year from the academic year. January comes to me in August, only with warmer weather and more sunshine. But really, seasons can change whenever we want—whenever we need the change.

I see the paths my friends have taken, the ones that I just couldn’t will myself to take as well, and I’ll admit it brings a sadness that I feel like I’m not doing enough. But my path, no matter how much it curved around where I thought it was going, gives me a lot to be grateful for. I’d much rather drive the curvy, windy roads in my Subaru anyway…something I’ve been doing ever since I turned 16.

For now, change is a start.

To start being.

Wonderful. Comfortable. Without comparison.