This is one of life's greatest lessons: Nothing that anyone says or does has anything to do with you.

It is important to realise that we are all living our own dream, so to speak. Everyone else is like pieces in a chess game; they may get in our way or challenge us from time to time, but this is a GOOD thing. Without the other pieces, there would be NO game.

It's all too easy to become the victim when someone says something that upsets us, but you have a choice. You can choose to rise above their fear and anger. You can recognise their insecurities without letting it compromise your well being... but this does not give YOU license to behave in a fearful or angry manner. You too must act with authenticity and integrity by treating others in a loving manner.

All too often, we are confronted with people who are merely reflecting our own fear, anger or insecurities in some way. So next time someone is less than kind and loving, ask yourself how their behaviour is a reflection of you. Maybe you are being less than kind and loving to someone else or, worse still, to yourself!

When you see things like this, it becomes clear that those who challenge you emotionally are your greatest teachers. They teach you strength and humility, preparing your heart to offer more love and kindness to others. Perhaps they represent how NOT to behave too... Only you can interpret the lesson that they present and each one will be different. CHOOSE to see the positive in the situation and consider it a blessing.