Opposite Equals

We are opposite equals. As in magnetism, so in human relations, opposites attract. Take away the opposite factor and there is less attraction.

The truth is if we follow equality far enough we destroy individuality and with it creativity.

“No one is created equal – let’s get that out there from the get-go. Some people are smarter than others, some are more attractive, some are healthier, happier, some are more conscientious, kinder, some make more money, etc. If we can quantify differences among people, then we can readily observe that people are not equal”  (“Psychology Today” August 17, 2018).

So, people are not created equal; but, it’s not readily discernible what makes one person more important than another. This is a very utilitarian interpretation of the word “equal”. In a more practical, human-based perspective – call it egalitarian — it’s implied that even though people aren’t equal they have the same worth and should be shown the same worth. Many religions rest on that foundational teaching — a golden rule, generally phrased like “Do unto others as you would have done unto you”. I have a folder containing the various forms of the golden rule in different countries. Most societies express it slightly differently but with the same meaning. This golden rule is more than just a religious fundamental; it is a cultural norm globally.

If we dislike someone, we are not likely to treat them as well as we might. Our initial dislike is inevitably perceived by the person. Their reaction to our initial (negative) behavior is likely to be in kind. That reinforces our dislike, and the perpetuation of this cycle goes on.

This reaction can be mitigated by employing a principle found in Scripture.

“Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself” (Philippians 2: 3).

To esteem means to respect and admire. Why?

“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself’” (Gal. 5:13, 14).

That brings us back to the golden rule.

On the basis of their human nature all are equal. In the matter of ability, skill, intuition, social grace, capacity to compute, physical strength, innate ability and numerous other traits people simply are not equal. Yet, they have a net worth based on their human nature making them worthy of being regarded as equal in importance as a human being.

If there were an old fashioned balancing scale that could measure worth and you were on one side with any person on the other the scale would always be balanced. The many variables mentioned earlier in this post plus others make it impossible to balance equality. All hail the worth of all others.

Instead of arguing over equality why not marvel over variety and show others the dignity of their worth.