Welcome to the Blog Hop “Comparison: Thief of Joy?” where bloggers from all over the world are invited to share their ideas about Theodore Roosevelt’s quote, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” Do you agree or disagree with Teddy’s POV? Please share your unique perspective!
There are three easy steps to join the Blog Hop:
1. Follow the instructions for submitting your entry using the linky provided below or at Everyday Gyaan — remember to copy and paste the link to your specific ‘comparison’ blog post, not just your blog, into the linky.
2. Copy & paste the following announcement into the intro to your blog post: “Linking to the Comparison Blog Hop on Dangerous Linda and Everyday Gyaan.”
3. Be sure to read and comment on other bloggers’ posts in the hop. It’s a great way to get to know each other and expand our cyber-community of awesome writers and thinkers!
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COMPARISON: “I SEE PATTERNS”
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What does it mean to ‘compare’? A working definition seems like a good place to start the conversation, right? Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary tells us this:
- 1 : to represent as similar: liken <shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? ~ Shakespeare>
- 2 a: to examine the character or qualities of especially in order to discover resemblances or differences <compare your responses with the answers>
- b: to view in relation to <tall compared to me> <easy compared with the last test>
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This story begins when Corinne, of Everyday Gyaan, asks a group of us to comment on a quote from Theodore Roosevelt: “Comparison is the thief of joy.”
After a short discussion with my good friend, the Everyday Gyaan-ess, we realize our perceptions are pretty much opposite of each other on this subject — perfect recipe for a thought-provoking exchange. We wonder how others might react to the quote, too, and that’s when we come up with the idea of a blog hop!
I have to tell you, my first reaction is to agree with President Roosevelt’s assertion that ‘comparison is the thief of joy.’ However, my initial response triggers, in my mind, a flood of exceptions to the rule. Ultimately, there are so many ‘exceptions’ that they appear to point to a different ‘rule’. Comparison and contrast are skills needed to perceive patterns, visually and experientially, which may enhance a person’s life in creative and practical ways.
As an artist, I use comparisons every day to add interest to my photos by looking for visual patterns wherever I go. There is a simple joy to be found in the acknowledgement of the natural order inherent in the world around me. Incorporating patterns into a photographic image invites the viewer to take some time looking at it. As Diane Ackerman says, “Pattern pleases us, rewards a mind seduced and yet exhausted by complexity. We crave pattern, and find it all around us, in petals, sand dunes, pine cones, contrails.” (An Alchemy of Mind: The Marvel and Mystery of the Brain)
Let’s consider my photograph above, for example. You naturally notice and compare the size and shape of the repeating pattern of vertical elements. It happens automatically. You probably don’t even know you’re doing it, comparing the lamppost to the doorway, to the pedestrian, to the parking meter. We also tend to compare shadows and reflections of objects pictured in contrast to the appearance of the objects themselves. It’s fun for the brain to perform this unconscious mental juxtaposing of patterns and it has been shown to hold the interest of many viewers for a few moments longer than they otherwise might be interested. Their prolonged enjoyment of the artwork increases the likelihood I will gain a new customer as a result.
Speaking of sales and business, I also appreciate the opportunity to compare and contrast patterns as applied to more practical aspects of my life. The Business Dictionary defines ‘pattern’ as: “Consistent and recurring characteristic or trait that helps in the identification of a phenomenon or problem, and serves as an indicator or model for predicting its future behavior.” The more I understand recurring past patterns, the more control I have over my present and future success.
For instance, when I witness a particular business associate stretching the truth with a customer or client, I will not be shocked when he attempts something similar with me. I will, in fact, be prepared for such an outcome. This knowledge contributes to my feelings of safety and confidence about my ability to manage my life experiences in a positive manner, and encourages a joyful sense of assurance that most happenings are not as random as others often make them out to be. In contrast, many people won’t notice or acknowledge the recurring pattern of the lying associate’s past behavior. They may even exclaim later, “I can’t believe he did that!” And, I reply, “I can’t believe you’re surprised!”
We can all agree that comparing ourselves to our friends and neighbors in a self-deprecating way is a ‘thief of joy’. But, let’s not throw the baby out with the bath water! Seeing and appreciating patterns in our daily experience is not only a good thing, it’s unavoidable and contributes to empowered living. Instead of cursing comparisons, let’s learn to use them wisely.
What positive discoveries have you made in art or life through comparing and contrasting patterns? How has this improved the quality of your life? Do you have a favorite photo illustrating patterns to share? Looking forward to seeing what you’ve got!
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PS For those photographers who are not already hooked on patterns, you will be after you check out the eye candy in this tutorial from Digital Photography School Online: 33 Inspirational Images That Feature Patterns and Repetition.
March 1st, 2012 - 12:32 am
That’s kinda how I see it too, but on the other hand it sucks…can’t help it, comparing has to happen, but if used wrong it is just wrong..lol.
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March 1st, 2012 - 12:59 am
This is very analytic and practical view of ‘comparison’. I must agree that when used positively, comparison can trigger personal growth.
I like the line where you say – Instead of cursing comparison, let us learn to use them wisely.
Nice take on the subject. Loved it.
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March 1st, 2012 - 1:07 am
Hi, Miss Daisy! ~
Just like they say, “Guns don’t kill people, people do!”, I would say, “Comparisons don’t hurt people, people do”, right?
Thank you for jumping on the blog hop — Your post is a great addition! XOXOX
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March 1st, 2012 - 1:10 am
Hi, Janaki! ~
Thank you for stopping by! I hope you will join the blog hop, too!
xoxo
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March 1st, 2012 - 6:07 am
Yes, it’s important to see the patterns and learn from them…I agree that we need to use comparisons as a tool for growth.
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March 1st, 2012 - 6:10 am
After reading your post, I can certainly see where comparison is used on a daily basis, sometimes even on a subconscious level, and could prove to be beneficial by means of motivating one to do or accomplish something. But for practical purposes, when it comes to human nature, I think comparisons should be left out of the conversation.
This idea that you and Corinne came up with was great! Really enjoyed participating. Thank you!
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March 1st, 2012 - 7:57 am
Comparison… a word I am not too fond of especially in my line of teaching. We are different in our shape, size and form and practice. Therefore what works for me may not work for another and comparing the two will hinder the growth of both.
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March 1st, 2012 - 10:34 am
Okay. Guess I know what I will be posting tomorrow.
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March 1st, 2012 - 12:00 pm
Hi, Corinne! ~
“Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?”
Indeed, I shall!
I’m enjoying the blog hop like an inviting afternoon in a garden full of bright & beautiful blooms — Thank you for the breath of fresh air that you are, Thank you for saying “Yes!” ;-x
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March 1st, 2012 - 12:16 pm
Hi, Mary! ~
I appreciate your comment which contrasts the drawbacks and benefits of comparing — the quandary as a whole is a bit of a paradox, perhaps?
BTW — I can’t get the photo of mac & cheese from your post out of my mind! Thanks!
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March 1st, 2012 - 12:23 pm
Dear Savira,
Your comment introduces a nuance of this subject I hadn’t previously perceived…
Why do we assume that ‘comparing’ means suggesting that one thing should be like another? When you say, “We are different in our shape, size and form and practice,” you are stating a comparison. The result is the beautiful variety that is US! What’s wrong with noticing that?
Comparing does not suggest things should be the same as each other. Conforming suggests that, right?
Thank you for joining the conversation and sharing your wisdom!
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March 1st, 2012 - 1:24 pm
[...] I’m linking up to the Comparison Blog Hop on Dangerous Linda and Everyday Gyaan. Share this:StumbleUponEmailTumblrFacebookTwitterLike this:LikeBe the first to [...]
March 1st, 2012 - 2:01 pm
Linda, I have to be honest and say I wasn’t sold on the idea of comparison until I read how we can use comparison to appreciate the patterns of nature and our surroundings. As a self-proclaimed amateur photographer, I have trained my eye to look for patterns, similarities, repetition, and so forth. I find that this allows me to contrast and showcase certain things I want to photograph. If we add the pragmatic side of comparison to our everyday lives, I can see how this is a valuable tool to have in our tool box. I’m happy to participate in this blog hop!
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March 1st, 2012 - 5:02 pm
I smiled when i read your comment here, because i have commented on another post saying that i am against comparing people, but that we can compare things. If you don’t compare you can’t evaluate things. Nice analysis
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March 1st, 2012 - 5:15 pm
Hi, Bella! ~
I have enjoyed reading all different perspectives featured in The Comparison Blog Hop, including yours! Looking forward to more coming
The only POV I can’t really relate to is the person who claimed she “can only see one side” of the issue, inferring that there is no other valid point of view. Of course, every issue has more than one side! Opening our eyes to this larger reality is imperative to growth in knowledge and wisdom. That is the beauty of what we’re doing here, IMHO.
Thank you for bringing an open mind today — I appreciate your caring & sharing!
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March 1st, 2012 - 5:52 pm
but what about when you compare and see negative things about yourself…what about when it’s so ingrained that you’re not good enough that it leaves a nasty forever scar..what about when kids compare themselves to others and causes bullying out of insecurity and jealousy….what if………As always….XOXOXOXO
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March 1st, 2012 - 7:09 pm
Well, since you put it that way, I see your point, especially since you’ve illustrated so aptly with the photo here. While we’re on the subject of contrast and comparison, this applies to writing too. I wonder how many writers unconsciously write in a voice they’ve borrowed from another. For instance, I know a writer who has a glaringly unique voice. She’s what you’d call a literary rock star. I was jealous at the way she could turn a phrase in such a natural-seeming way. But I wasn’t about to emulate her since I have my own style and voice, thank you But lo and behold, I noticed blogs creeping up like dandelions that appeared to be copying her unique style. And when I’d read these, I KNEW whose blog they’d been reading
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March 1st, 2012 - 8:47 pm
Linda… When I am stating the different shapes, size etc..I am not comparing but stating a fact of life. I do look at ‘US’ as a whole and I also make the conscious effort to see the individuality in that ‘US’.
A great topic of which I shall follow intently. Thank you for creating this platform!
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March 1st, 2012 - 8:56 pm
Hi, Nikky! ~
Welcome to my world! Glad I could make you smile
I’m happy to ‘meet’ you and looking forward to getting to know you better through your posts and comments! XO
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March 1st, 2012 - 9:02 pm
Dear Bongo,
When I compare and see negative things about myself then I have the opportunity to fix them — hah! That is so OK! What if you could see something you wanted to improve in yourself without feeling devastated and defensive? Then, you’re ready to fly ;-x
PS I don’t believe in “nasty scars that last forever” — or, at least, I’m trying not to…
XOXOXO
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March 1st, 2012 - 9:35 pm
Hi, Debra! ~
I’m very intrigued by your mysterious story of the ‘literary rock star”…
I know exactly what you mean about writing in one’s own voice. I actually have more than one voice, and they’re not all as charming as each other — haha! Uh, oh, I think that was a comparison …
Whenever I find myself feeling jealous, I remind myself that the person I’m jealous of is demonstrating that what I long for is possible to achieve. Then I thank them in my heart! Now that I think about it, that’s sort of how I became friends with YOU! XOXO
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March 1st, 2012 - 9:43 pm
Hi, Savira! ~
Welcome back! For your incubating pleasure:
I understand completely that when you were “… stating the different shapes, size etc…[you were] not [intending to] comparing but stating a fact of life… ”
The word “different” is a comparative adjective, by virtue of using it you are comparing (even if you are stating a fact): “When we talk about two things, we can “compare” them. We can see if they are the same or different…. We can use comparative adjectives to describe the differences.” http://www.englishclub.com/grammar/adjectives-comparative.htm
My point is that there is no such thing as the concept of “different” without the concept of “comparison”. What would I be different from? This is why I say that comparison is getting a bad rap. We all do it and it’s not all bad. It’s just noticing relationships. Judging those relationships as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ is another concept entirely
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March 1st, 2012 - 9:53 pm
Linda… I will admit that this word has given rise to questions within me and I came up and also admitted it in Leah’s post… Here is what I wrote
I feel that comparison is an invincible or abstract line that we humans have a tendency to cross!
Now we have to meet over a glass of wine or even a sumptuous meal!
Hugs
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March 1st, 2012 - 11:15 pm
I feel the statement is very subjective. Our reaction and our attitude to comparision can either kill Joy or create joy or bring about growth too, or leave unaffected …Very very subjective. As many possibler consequences as are people comparing
Je
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March 2nd, 2012 - 12:00 am
Hi Linda. I agree with you on the artist part. Being a person who loves the creative process as well, I would always compare and contrast the elements of my work. And yes, it definitely helps for improvement.
And again, yes, comparison is an inevitable part of life. The simple act of buying groceries needed comparison, especially when one is in a tight budget — comparing prices, which product is of better quality, etc.
Thank you so much for your kind words on my comparison post. The opinion of a brilliant lady on my writing means so much to me.
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March 2nd, 2012 - 5:08 am
Ha, ha Linda, how funny ☺ I never quite looked at that photo as a ‘vivid image’ that would stick with someone…you must have been quite hungry when you saw it? Our minds are such a unique part of us. Have a good day!
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March 2nd, 2012 - 1:24 pm
Savira,
I love what you said, abstract and INVINCIBLE. A line humans sometimes cross. Maybe turn in into something to hurt ourselves or others with. But I like the idea that it is invincible: that we can’t really use it to “win” or be better than something that we are comparing–or making ourselves feel worse. Since it is invincible, we can’t win that game. It feels like a concept that is beyond the fact that no matter how well we compare, there is always going to be something or someone better.
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March 2nd, 2012 - 3:12 pm
“We can all agree that comparing ourselves to our friends and neighbors in a self-deprecating way is a ‘thief of joy’. ” Well concluded Linda.
You know what? You’ve got me curious about photography…..
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March 2nd, 2012 - 3:14 pm
I read this the other day and I truly agree in the compare-contrast point of view. If it’s rendered to art, it’s a process that could truly improve one’s work. I thank God for such creative minds I also like the image that you chose. It’s so unique. I think we have basis of what’s good and not based on our own perceptions and standards. I guess it would be such a boring world if we don’t see any difference in people.
I am comparing and contrasting my views now as I hop into another blog. thanks for the sharing
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March 2nd, 2012 - 4:54 pm
A friend and blogger loves the following quite:
“You will never be happy if you continue to search for what happiness consists of. You will never live if you are looking for the meaning of life.”
~ Albert Camus
I think it fits here.
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March 3rd, 2012 - 8:07 am
I think the missing word here is ‘judgement’. When comparison is used to recognized patterns, to learn, to develop, to create… then it works well and can be a productive part of our lives. When comparison is used to judge ourselves and others and develop a lot of ‘shoulds’ in our lives such as “I should be prettier, smarter, skinnier” then we’re creating a problem. I appreciate Corinne starting this discussion. I’ll continue my thoughts on my blog! Thanks Linda as always for your unique and creative take on this subject!
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March 3rd, 2012 - 12:00 pm
I love your view Linda! Especially the part about empowered living. I think our perceptions on comparing and contrasting ourselves and our art to others is up to us. I’ve been able to grow from negative comparisons because I’ve changed my perspective.
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March 3rd, 2012 - 12:57 pm
Welcome Back, Savira! ~
I love the way the Blog Hop has expanded what I love most about blogging:
!!!THOUGHT PROVOKING C-O-N-V-E-R-S-A-T-I-O-N!!!!
Interesting reading the different views presented in the posts and comments throughout the hop, and beautiful to perceive the participants’ perspectives (including mine!) evolving right in front of my eyes!!
I’m ready for the sumptuous meal and the glass of wine, we’ll get NO sleep for a week! XOXO
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March 3rd, 2012 - 1:04 pm
Hi, Jerly! ~
I agree with your comment, especially: “Our reaction and our attitude to comparision can either kill Joy or create joy or bring about growth too, or leave unaffected.”
You can take the lady out of her ‘thinkingspace’, but you can’t take the ‘thinkingspace’ out of the lady
Thank you for hopping by and sharing your perspective! Please come back soon!
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March 3rd, 2012 - 2:36 pm
Hi, Irene!~
Thank You for pointing out another important use of ‘Comparing & Contrasting’ for the benefit of art!
Personally, I am anxious to compare my artwork to the work of successful artists whom I admire, both photographers and others. What makes theirs so engaging, popular, or ‘fill in the blank’? How can I improve my artwork by using this information? It’s not about copying them or competing with them, but rather learning and being inspired by them.
Your grocery shopping comparison is also a valid and relevant point
What I’m wondering now is, “How did comparing ever get such a bad reputation in the first place? And how can we change that so people won’t be so afraid of such a useful concept?”
Honestly, I thought this topic would be fun to tackle, but I didn’t realize how truly important tackling this issue might be…
Thank you for joining the Comparison Blog Hop, Irene! You bring a wealth of wisdom! XOXOX
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March 3rd, 2012 - 9:57 pm
Hi, Luchi! ~
If you’re curious about photography then you’re definitely in the RIGHT place! Are you a photographer? I hope to see more of you and your photos around these parts
Thank you for spreading the LUV, as you always do!
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March 4th, 2012 - 4:10 am
Wise words, Linda, ” Instead of cursing comparisons, let’s learn to use them wisely”. It’s interesting how we all differ in our views on the same topic and yet understand each other’s pov.
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March 4th, 2012 - 9:24 am
Linda, Your post actually set me thinking!!
And you are so right!! We tend to take ‘comparison’ in terms of a negative feeling – as in, why one should see only the negative aspect of another, why not positive and learn to aspire for what you have seen…
Thanks for such a different view.. I am glad I caught up with you!
Love
Punam
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March 4th, 2012 - 10:08 am
Hey Linda, I’m not a photographer. I have a camera I never bother to use, I make photos with my Android phone (Samsung Galaxy S2) because I like having everything I need in one place
I never thought it necessary to edit photos, I used to just post them the way they are.
But I see what you, SJ, Jan, Corinne and some other bloggers do with photos and I love it.
You have woken up the curious mind
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March 4th, 2012 - 10:14 am
With a Sociology background like mine, you can’t help but notice patterns. I definintely think it is all about how you use that knowledge. In some situations comparisons are what teaches you that the same thing doesn’t work for everyone… there’s no pattern.
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March 4th, 2012 - 11:55 am
Linda, I like your essay here. Clearly it’s written from an artist’s perspective and there is so much truth in what you say. I guess, it can actually be a source of joy if your intention is to produce something beautiful. On the other hand, too often I find myself wasting time comparing myself to others, when I probably would do better to focus on accepting myself. Still, even when I compare to others, even if it robs my joy temporarily, it can motivate me to emulate the qualities I admire in them. Wow, this is a very complicated topic. You and Corinne have opened up a great debate. Thanks for doing this. I posted my entry today.
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March 4th, 2012 - 2:14 pm
[...] the topic, Comparison; The Thief of Joy. We are linking this post to the Comparison Blog Hop on Dangerous Linda and Everyday [...]
March 4th, 2012 - 2:45 pm
I think you hit the nail on the head, Linda. There’s potential for harm in comparison, but it can also spur us on to better ourselves.
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March 4th, 2012 - 3:05 pm
Great post.
I love how you used photography as a way of comparison. I too, feel there are both good and bad in how we utilize the our comparison tool.
Be blessed WILDLY!
xo wendy
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March 4th, 2012 - 7:29 pm
Nice topic Linda in my view …There are two things Linda one is perception ..all humans view on something is not the same .And about comparison ..Unless you compare with other you may not know what are the special qualities you have ..some times comparison gets you competition ..Nice post
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March 4th, 2012 - 9:45 pm
My dear Linda,
When I first read the quote, my immediate reaction was yes…comparison can indeed be the thief of joy and as imperfect humans, we do it everyday, sometimes subconsciously. I’ve had a few days to mull over the quote again & after reading some of the other posts & comments, I see how comparing can be both good & bad. Really depends on the situation…I have to agree though that comparison, when used the right way, can indeed be used as a tool to achieve.
Enjoyed reading your perspectives on this topic.
Thanks for sharing.
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March 6th, 2012 - 1:03 am
Linda you have brought in a whole new positive perspective to the this quote of Roosevelt. Yes instead of throwing the baby with the bath water, we should learn to notice these patterns and use them wisely. A wise friend pointed a few years back that my entire life has been a recurring pattern of choosing the wrong man and jumping from one relationship to another. At first I did not want to believe but as I started thinking about it and looking back to my life I realized I was doing just that, the same pattern and the same wrong men and walking right into another relationship as an escape. I am very conscious of it now and I hope it will help me in life to change things in a more positive manner. Always a pleasure reading your posts,my friend
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March 7th, 2012 - 7:11 pm
I concur! Comparison is a great tool for me to use to measure my progress and personal growth. I very much enjoyed reading your perspective on the topic and this “Seeing and appreciating patterns in our daily experience is not only a good thing, it’s unavoidable and contributes to empowered living.” … whoa — so true!
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March 11th, 2012 - 8:38 pm
Recently Andy Stanley at North Point Community Church did several weeks of talks on comparison. He continued to note: There is no win in comparison and it is more than true.
In a society where we are constantly urged to “be more, do more, have more” it boils down to realizing we set our own trap to become ensnared when we don’t choose to enjoy the blessings we have and rather choose to desire those of someone else. (Who might just be sizing up ours and “wanting” what we have or do) What an ugly cycle.
Great Post, Linda
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