Judgmental Injustice continued...

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When I see a person who looks "different" I always wonder what their life is like and if they might be reaching out for attention even if it isn't the best kind. If I feel threatened or intimidated by the individual, I notice my judgmental self comes out. My cautious thoughts become overwhelming and judgmental. This causes me to work on finding a middle ground and learn to trust, because even though a person may look intimidating, he or she can be a really good person. I have to make sure I'm not being too naïve but also I need to use my intuition. I was inspired to write the article below for Examiner.com in December, 2009. Unfortunately the Examiner closed its online doors and removed the original content.

Judgmental Injustice

What do you think when you see someone who has the colors of the rainbow in his or her hair, someone whose clothes might look a little out there or maybe they do not speak proper English, do you dismiss them morally and comment negatively under your breath?  When most people encounter individuals whose appearance do not meet their preconceived cookie cutter expectations, injustice surfaces resulting from their judgmental self.

Is this our human nature and, if so, what can we do to change it?  It is human nature to make observations based on facts and it is okay to share such observations so long as they are not hurting anyone.  But, if your opinion is based on assumption and not fact, you may need to find your moral compass to soften the judgmental self.  There are many ways to overcome this way of thinking. 
It is important to recognize these negative feelings when they occur and acknowledge that they are inappropriate and connected to thoughts, not necessarily your own, even if it is in your head. Witness these thoughts as if they are just commentary. Fundamentally, we must learn to accept everyone regardless of how they are packaged.  Find their positive traits and focus on them.  It is liberating and worthwhile to connect with all walks of life. Open your mind; once you can move beyond your superficial scrutiny, you’ll find you can actually relate with even the most quirky characters. 
Next time you’re walking with a group of friends and an innocent, eccentric person becomes a target of offensive attention, find your common ground with this person and counter your peer’s inappropriate behavior if this is the case (and I hope it isn't).  The more you are able to keep your ethics in check, the less the negative thoughts and behavior will occur.  This compassion will change your perspective of the world and empower a new found kinship!

Check out KindOverMatter for some great advice in overcoming the EGO!