Absolutes Quote by Caroline Myss
“Expectations are usually predicated on the idea that the everyday things that happen to ordinary people shouldn't happen to you. People hold the idea of being ordinary in absolute contempt, so when they face an illness, poverty, or any kind of catastrophe, they say, 'I can't believe this happened to me.' And who did you think it was going to happen to - the woman across the street?”
About This Quote
People often think misfortune only be to “others,” but it can affect anyone, revealing bias and lack of empathy.
In simple terms: Misfortune isn’t exclusive.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate empathy and recognize shared vulnerability.
Themes
empathy
bias
humanity
Mood
thoughtful
compassionate
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- health crises
- financial hardship
- natural disasters
- personal loss
- null
Key Concepts
psychology
social perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you respond when “bad things” happen to you?
- What biases affect your view of others’ suffering?
A Different Perspective
Denial of shared risk can hinder compassion.
![“Their [the U.S.’s] defense budget in absolute figures is almost 25 times bigger than Russia’s. This is what in defense is referred to as ‘their home — their fortress.’ And good for them, I say. Well done!” quote by Vladimir Putin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ec3/vladimir-putin-261_absolutes_their-the-u-s-s-defense-budget-in-absolu_10791.jpg)
