It’s the ‘Maxims I am not sure about’ week at The Napkin Dad Daily!
So, I think this is true. But then again, maybe it’s not. What do you think? Leave your thoughts in the comments below. If you get this via email or a reader, I would love it if you would return to the actual blog to comment.
Drawing and Question by Marty Coleman of The Napkin Dad Daily
Quote by Lucius Annaeus Seneca, 4 BCE – 65 CE, Roman Philosopher and Statesman
>I think it springs from our delusion that we are our egos,a separate self, and therefore are defending or enhancing a nonexistent being.
>Cruelty does comes from ego, feelings of loss of control and misery loves company. I try to sometimes "out nice" someone who I know is basically unhappy and therefore trying to bring me along with them. It's a nice thing when maybe I can help this person feel a little better about things including themselves and bring a smile to their face. I think a lot of times people just need to feel they matter. It helps the world go round'.
>I do believe cruelty always comes from something lacking within the person whether it is self love, self esteem…whatever…so, yes, it is a weakness within the person who is cruel. The sad thing is these people always believe it is some others responsibility and that they are justified. It is part of it.
>I think this is mostly true. My parents taught me that bullies are mean to others so they can feel better about themselves, which I believe – and this is what I have taught my own kids. But I have to say that I have encountered a few people in my life who are just plain mean. Whether it's from mental illness or genetics or a misfiring synapse in the brain – who knows? Sadly, these people seem to be beyond redemption.
>sometimes it springs from pure insanity; sometimes from misguided intentions (tho violent cruelty can't be explained via this). But mostly, yes, it springs from insecurity/weakness.