I've been ruminating quite a bit lately on the topic of envy.
Not jealousy. Envy. There's a difference!
From dictionary.com:
Envy and jealousy are very close in meaning. Envy denotes a longing to possess something awarded to or achieved by another: to feel envy when a friend inherits a fortune. Jealousy, on the other hand, denotes a feeling of resentment that another has gained something that one more rightfully deserves: to feel jealousy when a coworker receives a promotion. Jealousy also refers to anguish caused by fear of unfaithfulness.
Being human, I have naturally and obviously struggled with both. It's just part of the game. Fortunately, as a species for the most part we don't go about bashing each other over the head with clubs to get what the other guy has anymore.
But envy - things that I want, things that I see other people with; and the struggle and resolve not to hold that against them. It's important. They have it, I don't. It's not their fault - it's happenstance and chance. I don't have to hate on a girl because her dancing is better than mine, or because her costumes are the most amazing. Rather I should take inspiration from that - maybe I need to practice more. Maybe I need to set aside a little more time to construct and assemble my own ensemble. All on me. My responsibility.
Some other things I'm envious of - they just can't be helped - they are circumstances beyond human control; and in that case, dwelling on them doesn't help any situation at all. Suck it up, take a breath, move on.
And in conclusion, a few words from Jenna, who may be my new hero:
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