They Didn’t Get Away With Anything — Don’t worry about it

Photo by Dave Lowe on Unsplash

I have this belief that none of us can escape what’s meant for us.

When I was about 19 years old, I got arrested for fighting. I fought a lot growing up, so the idea of getting arrested for it felt weird. Like, what is this?

No charges were filed, and I was let go without seeing a judge.

Moving along,

I watched how other people did things and got in trouble, and the consequences seemed like a “tap on the hand.” While others may have received monetary free room and board. It all depends.

I watch body cam footage and interrogations on YouTube, and in the comments, I can see people’s annoyance with what they seem to believe is a lack of consequences.

But here’s another perspective —

We are all part of this life experience. And as we witness there are lessons during this experience.

Things we learn along the way.

Wisdom we gain.

Ah ha, moments that convince us of why things didn’t work out.

This is life. We may not always know why something is happening, but in my opinion — it has a purpose.

And I say that — to say this — we have no idea WHY the person is having the experience they are having.

You can say, “Oh they’re just lazy.

But how do you know that’s “all it is?” Or how do you know that laziness isn’t a symptom of something deeper?

Or that the experience they are having is for the evolution of their soul. And so maybe, they get a tap on the hand, as God’s way of telling them to be careful and calm down (which I believe was my experience re: the arrest). Or a longer stance because their soul requires a certain experience and due to that person’s choices, this is the way they’re experiencing that lesson.

And even that experience may not take, so they get a similar lesson —

HELLO, past relationships — because that was a cycle and several attempts of tests that I was clearly failing — lol. Or maybe I was in the advanced section of the soul remembrance test — who knows lol


My point is

— we don’t know why people are having the experiences they are.

We may be free to choose but we aren’t free from the consequences, whatever they might be.

I think about people who get in trouble the first time they do someone illegal — I chuckle, because what is the message here?! What are the odds?

Even people who get pregnant the first time they have sex, without meaning to, like — woahhh!

There are people who chose the path of constant illegal actions — who don’t get caught, or don’t end up incarcerated for “long” (anytime is long, I get it, but stay with me).

I know people who have been arrested often, even did over a year in jail, and don’t have any felony convictions.

I mean — favor ain’t fair.

And I’m here for it.

Just because we have a belief that you do this and the consequence is that. That’s not always the case.

Sh*t happens.

Favor ain’t “fair.”

And today could be “your lucky” day (I don’t believe in luck, but hopefully you get the energy).


Just because it looks like they got away with something, don’t be so quick to think that is the case.

You have no idea where their next choice will take them. Or where that choice they just made, will ultimately lead them.

And also — don’t worry about it.

Life has a way of setting things straight. ☺️


And while Life handles all that, you can consider this:

Ways to foster empathy, open-mindedness, and a non-judgmental attitude in your interactions with others:

1. Practice Active Listening:

  • Give your full attention when someone is speaking.

  • Reflect on what they’re saying before formulating your response.

  • Avoid interrupting, allowing them to express themselves fully.

2. Seek Understanding:

  • Ask open-ended questions to delve deeper into others’ perspectives.

  • Try to understand the underlying emotions and motivations behind their words.

  • Empathize with their experiences, acknowledging that everyone has a unique journey.

3. Suspend Judgment:

  • Challenge your initial judgments and assumptions.

  • Recognize that everyone has their own valid reasons for their beliefs and actions.

  • Practice withholding judgment until you have a more comprehensive understanding.

4. Cultivate Curiosity:

  • Approach conversations with genuine curiosity.

  • Be open to learning from others and expanding your own perspective.

  • Embrace the idea that diverse viewpoints contribute to a richer tapestry of understanding.

5. Educate Yourself:

  • Take the initiative to learn about different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.

  • Read literature or engage in activities that expose you to a variety of perspectives.

  • Attend events or workshops that promote diversity and inclusion.

6. Empower Others to Share:

  • Create a safe and non-judgmental space for others to express themselves.

  • Encourage open dialogue and be receptive to different opinions.

  • Foster an environment where everyone feels heard and respected.

7. Practice Empathy in Action:

  • Put yourself in others’ shoes by imagining their experiences.

  • Actively support and validate their emotions, even if you don’t fully understand.

  • Offer assistance or kindness when appropriate, demonstrating your empathy.

8. Challenge Your Biases:

  • Reflect on your own biases and preconceived notions.

  • Engage in activities or conversations that challenge these biases.

  • Be willing to unlearn and reevaluate your perspectives over time.

9. Promote Inclusivity:

  • Advocate for inclusivity in your personal and professional circles.

  • Support initiatives that promote diversity and equal opportunities.

  • Be mindful of the language and behavior that may exclude or marginalize others.

10. Practice Self-Reflection:

  • Regularly reflect on your own attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors.

  • Consider how your actions may impact others and adjust accordingly.

  • Embrace a lifelong commitment to personal growth and expanding your empathy.

ILY

be well.

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HEAL THE HURT: Life After the Military