People can describe revenge as the act of hurting somebody in retaliation for their wrongdoings. Many cultures and religions share the desire to act in retribution when they suffer injustice. To some extent, it is a natural human desire to seek to restore balance in a situation where they find themselves wronged. However, as we will explore in this post, revenge is almost always a harmful desire. It does more harm than good.
Guided meditation can help to delve into your own mind, eliminate negative or vengeful thought patterns, and build a more positive mindset.
Self-development programme: We can help you take practical steps toward a more positive outlook. We can also help you learn about forgiveness.
Why do we seek revenge?
Our ultimate desire for security often leads us to lash out when we feel threatened or hurt. The need for revenge often derives from seeking to repay those who make us feel less than. We fail to recognise that tearing people down will not make us any better than them, and it will not repair the wounds they have opened in us. Our desire to make people feel the pain they have instilled within us is not often practical. Spiteful people can take spite. We will just be weakened by the influx of hatred we feel.
Is revenge good for us?
‘An eye for an eye would make the whole world blind.’
The desire for revenge is almost always an unhealthy method of coping with wrongdoing or pain. The cultural precedent of seeking revenge is still very much alive and kicking. We must acknowledge that seeking to wrong those who have hurt us only amplifies the pains and problems we have faced in our life. We extrapolate our negativity and force it on others when we seek revenge. Choosing to grow past and learn from those who have wronged us is far more effective than being dragged down to the same level as those who cause us pain.
How to avoid revenge?
There are more effective and indeed more peaceful methods of handling wrongdoing or upset.
Settling an argument through discussion can help. Trying to resolve issues through a conversation enables those involved in a dispute to understand the opposite person’s point of view and understanding of the situation. This can potentially result in the finding of common ground.
Forgiveness can be an essential tool in finding closure with those who have wronged us. By choosing to work past the problem we have, we break a chain of revenge and bitterness, allowing all parties to move on with their lives. Also, occasions when those who have wronged you will not settle or act civilly towards you. In times like that, forgiveness can bring peace and prevent further negative communication.
