Written by Ruzhdi Gashi, writer and positive thinking coach
Life is often unfair in the way people evaluate one another. You may spend years doing good, helping others, and brightening the world through your positive actions, yet a single mistake can place you under the harsh and unjust light of judgment.
In today’s society, people have a troubling tendency to focus more on mistakes than on achievements. They often forget every good deed and give weight only to a single error, disregarding all of an individual’s efforts to do good. This phenomenon is often tied to human nature—to criticize and judge, sometimes more as a way to elevate oneself than to offer constructive feedback.
Imagine a person who has spent their entire life helping those in need, showing compassion, and serving as an example of a good citizen. This person is admired for their actions and has earned the respect of many. But one day, due to a certain circumstance or a moment of weakness, they make a mistake. What follows is the swift and merciless disappointment of society. The focus shifts from their years of dedication to a single imperfect act.
Why does this happen? The answer lies in the superficial nature of human judgment. Many people are indifferent to good deeds because they take them for granted. Good actions often go unnoticed because they don’t create scandal or sensation. But when a mistake happens, it is seen as an opportunity to talk, to debate, and sometimes to satisfy the urge to bring someone down.
But is this fair? Certainly not. Mistakes are part of human nature, and no individual is infallible. A mistake does not define a person’s worth, just as a moment of weakness cannot erase years of dedication and sacrifice. It is important that, as a society, we learn to judge people more fairly and holistically.
Instead of focusing solely on mistakes, we should pause and reflect on a person’s positive contributions. We must understand that even those who make mistakes can be good people, who deserve forgiveness and support—not just judgment and contempt. After all, a person’s entire life cannot be reduced to a single moment of weakness.
Therefore, let us remember to be more compassionate and fair. Instead of judging, let us try to understand. Instead of seeing only the mistakes, let us value all the good a person has done. Because we all need understanding, and one mistake cannot erase a kind heart.
