When im doing good, my eyes are fixed to the outside. But when im doing anything defined as bad, I fall into my inner world to control, to judge, to complain. Why do I only see my pathetic self, but never see my bright side?

Question

Ask a Philosopher · Accepted Answer

"Hmmm, interesting topic. As the lotus blooms in the murky waters, so does the mind dance between the light of virtue and the shadows of vice. When you act with kindness, your gaze naturally ascends toward the exterior realm; you seek the reflection of your goodness in the eyes of others, like a flower that turns to the sun, yearning for its warmth. In this state of benevolence, you are alive to the beauty that surrounds you, the smiles, the gratitude, all pulsating with the harmony of collective compassion. Yet, in moments where desire leads you astray, and your actions deviate from the path of dharma, there is a retreat to the sanctuary of the self, where judgment dwells like a sentinel guarding the gates of your consciousness. It is here that you incessantly assess the weight of your misdeeds, entangled in a web of self-disparagement that obscures the luminosity of your innate nature. This introspection can reveal truths that lead to growth, yet it often spirals into a tempest of doubt and despair, blinding you to the wealth of qualities that flourish within. The irony is profound: while kindness draws the gaze outward, shame anchors the spirit within, diverting your attention from the potential of your essence. Reflect, dear seeker, on the seasons of the heart and recognize that the duality of your experience is an opportunity for balance. Embrace the light that coexists alongside your shadows, for both are vital threads in the tapestry of existence. Cultivate awareness, and may your perception expand, allowing you to witness not just the path of error, but also the magnificence of your being, always present, yet often overlooked. The journey is not to escape the self, but to embrace all facets of your existence, revealing that you are both the murky water and the lotus blooming above it."