Self-Pity

Muriel Lester said, “Hunt for self-pity as you would hunt for lice.” Lice are difficult to eradicate because they are small and hidden. Lice combs are fine combs that are for dragging through hair to scrape lice eggs off the hair. The dread and loathing and intent for destruction that a person suffering from a lice infestation would employ is an appropriate level of the same emotions and intent that should be aimed at self-pity.

Even though self-pity feels to be justified and comforting, it is actually annoying and deadly. It can distract us from usefulness, from the enjoyment of what value there actually is in our lives, and make us annoying to others who would like to comfort our hearts, but are distressed that we waste on our flesh what they sacrifice to provide to our souls.

Life is difficult. Brace up. Be awesome anyway.