The splinter in the other, the log in my own eye, what does that mean? Also, will we be judged in the same manner that we judge? Are these sayings related, if so what do they indicate? I don’t think they were stated to engender fear, no, but insight yes, about the nature of reality. Perhaps the inner and the outer world are one, artificial boundaries needed to try to make sense of our multifaceted relationships with ourselves, as well as with others. Perhaps our judgments of others are really about how we really relate to ourselves. This is difficult to implement into life, because of temperament, family background and also the simple ability to be able to look within and be able to name what is going on; may not be developed. Projections are unconscious processes and when the insight about what is happening comes to light, then the projections ceases to be a projection and becomes an avenue for growth and understanding, not only of self but also of others. Troubled personalities have troubling relationships; they become the norm, a way of life causing a great deal of pain for everyone concerned.
Br. Mark Dohle, OCSO
