envy

...Envy is probably the basest emotion we have. A direct result of the Fall, it was Satan’s sin....

...Envy defines “good” as “what I do not possess,” and hates the good that it has...

...The problem with envy is that it focuses outside our boundaries, onto others. If we are focusing on what others have or have accomplished, we are neglecting our responsibilities and will ultimately have an empty heart...

...Envy is a self-perpetuating cycle. Boundaryless people feel empty and unfulfilled. They look at another’s sense of fullness and feel envious. This time and energy needs to be spent on taking responsibility for their lack and doing something about it...

...Your envy should always be a sign to you that you are lacking something. At that moment, you should ask God to help you understand what you resent, why you do not have whatever you are envying, and whether you truly desire it. Ask him to show you what you need to do to get there, or give up the desire.

- from Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend

*************

Photo: Bald eagle and Paintail ducks - Mud Bay, Surrey BC.

(I know - that eagle is probably not looking with envy, but hunger. Oh well...)