Comparing yourself with others will leave you vulnerable
on three counts: you’ll either feel inferior, superior or impressed.
All three of these states are dangerous because they all disregard
the underlying principle of our true connection with each other – mutual love and regard, based on independently generated self-esteem.

To protect yourself from this vulnerability, make sure that your attention remains turned within, towards the spiritual experience of pure pride. Staying centered in your elevated self-respect will help you remain undisturbed by others around you.

The root of suffering is attachment.
You have created a space in your mind that holds a person or object as part of you.
When that person or object is criticized, neglected or not with you, you feel pain in your mind and you experience a sense of loss.

If you want to be happy, you must learn to love
and appreciate while remaining independent.