Overcoming Hasty Judgements: A Pilgrim's Path to Compassion and Understanding
How self-awareness and mindful reflection can transform our relationships with others and ourselves.
Dear Pilgrims,
In a world where we are constantly required to react – whether in daily life, at work, or in public – we often make hasty judgements. We fail to truly see people and situations for what they are, and at the same time, we overlook our own shortcomings. Yet reflecting on ourselves is far more important than passing judgement on others.
How can we learn to avoid hasty judgements and approach each other with more awareness, humility, and understanding?
Of Specks and Beams
Jesus said in the Gospel of Luke: "Why do you see the speck in your brother’s eye, but fail to notice the beam in your own?"
This strong image shows us how easily we recognise the faults of others while remaining blind to our own. But before we judge, we should first examine ourselves. Those who bear responsibility – whether as parents, teachers, pastors, or simply as fellow human beings – are especially called to act with humility and compassion.
Self-Reflection as the Path to Inner Peace
Without honest self-reflection, it is difficult to truly understand others. Gaining self-awareness takes time and conscious effort.
Only when we acknowledge our own "beams" can we become more open to the struggles and stories of others.
Trusting Your Instincts?
Many of our judgements arise instinctively, shaped by a mix of intuition and quick thinking. Striking a balance between gut feeling and rational consideration can help us make wiser and more peaceful decisions.
Ask yourself: Does my decision bring inner peace, or does it create unrest?
Practical Steps for a More Mindful Approach
Pause for self-reflection: Take time to reflect – whether while walking on a pilgrimage, with journaling, or in quiet moments of meditation.
Practise active listening: Instead of rushing to judge, truly listen. Asking thoughtful questions can reveal hidden perspectives.
Cultivate patience: On long pilgrimages, every step matters. This experience teaches us to be more patient and understanding in daily life.
Embrace different perspectives: Avoid putting people into boxes. Engaging with others – whether in a pilgrimage group or among friends – can help us appreciate each person’s uniqueness.
Lead by example: Acknowledge your own mistakes and encourage others to act with humility and openness.
Final Thoughts
Every day, we unconsciously form judgements about others. But by becoming aware of these patterns, we can learn and grow.
Jesus' invitation to remove the "beam" from our own eye first is not just a call for self-criticism – it is an appeal for a more loving and responsible way of interacting with others.
Our pilgrimage journeys, which constantly bring us into new encounters and challenges, teach us to pause and reflect rather than judge too quickly. With greater compassion, patience, and wisdom, we can build deeper, more lasting connections – both with ourselves and those around us.
Buen Camino,
Alexander