There were two similar tricycles in the yard: 2-year-old Ray was on one and 3-year-old, Nshaun, was to ride the other one. Can you guess which one Nshaun wanted? Yes, the one Ray was riding.
And when they switched, can you guess which one Nshaun then wanted to ride? Oy vey!
This behavior is not unique to little boys. “I want theirs” are three words spoken out loud or inwardly – maybe even in prayers – as an adult. Yes, the Dose can confess to such thoughts but not any more. What extracted my green eye? Reality!
The green-eyed monster is a robber of time, energy, and joy. Nshaun wasted more time whining about the bike situation then he spent riding. As for the Dose, I can recall wasted time peering over my neighbor’s figurative fence, draining me of the energy to enjoy what was mine and even appreciate what was not mine!
Despite the power of this monster, he is ultimately under your control.
As there are no monsters under the bed… there need not be one in your eye. Let’s grow up!
(Repost from 2010)