When we say ‘my problems aren’t that bad, it could be worse’ in order to feel better about our situations, it requires comparison. That epiphany will always require someone to be worse off than us in order for us to feel better. We lean on others misfortune (not in a malicious way…it’s usually subconscious) to get ourselves to feel resolve for our own set of problems. We compare for the sake of an illusion of solace.
On the other hand, when we say ‘there is purpose and beauty in my problems’ it doesn’t require a search for comparison. It’s not a relative scale. It doesn’t require anyone to be doing worse than you. It’s an appreciation of your reality.
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I’m always interested in your perspective, whether affirming or dissenting. Continue the conversation anytime: gabe@gabethebassplayer.com