SACRIFICE DE-MYSTIFIED

Sacrifice is honorable. But in many cases it is simply foolish and unnecessary!

Cultures and religions have glorified sacrifice for a good reason. Unfortunately, we have misunderstood the concept and often used it, perhaps unintentionally, to cover up for our lack of courage, awareness, wisdom, creative thinking or problem solving.

At work:

How many of us, in the name of professional success and financial stability, have "sacrificed" family, relationships and personal time? If we take the time to reflect, the price we pay can be much less, we can work smarter and apply intelligent and ethical solutions to draw a line between work and family and live a more balanced life.

At home:

We often confuse love with tolerating different forms of abuse from people in our personal circles. This causes us to miss out on life, build resentment and increase frustration. Instead this should be a time to draw healthy boundaries, be assertive about your values and protocols of family relations, and clarify expectations and responsibilities. In turn, this can create a functional and healthy environment where all members can thrive.

In society:

We have been brought up to fit in and conform to society's norms and expectations. We "sacrifice" our peace, dreams and convictions to be "approved". We blindly follow standards and give our loyalty to a society that is molding us into something that does not look like our true selves.  Sometimes we forget that the only way to a blissful life is to be unapologetically who we are.

The definition of sacrifice is: “an act of giving up something valued for the sake of something else regarded as more important or worthy.” Is this honorable? Yes. Is it necessary? Yes. 

Can life go on without it? No. Can we live in peace without it? No.

But there are conditions: 

1- Sacrifice has to be the last option left after we have explored all creative options that spare us from giving up something valuable.

2- It is done with full awareness.

3- It is exercised with wisdom.

4- It actually serves a good purpose.

 5- It is not a cover that we use to avoid doing what requires courage and a sense of responsibility towards everyone - especially ourselves. 

6- It is done out of love. 

7- It does not create bitterness, anger, resentment, sadness, self-victimization or any negative feelings in our hearts.

Do you feel that you are sacrificing at work, home or society? If yes, do you have any negative emotions? Are you totally convinced that it's the right thing to do and the only option? If yes, then great, you must be an inspiration to many, even if you don't notice it. 

But if the answer is no, then it is time to read this article again.