"私が作った敵で私を判断してください"

Judging a person by the enemies they make might sound odd at first, right? But let’s break it down. What it really means is that the people who oppose you can say as much about your character as those who support you. If your enemies are figures of wrongdoing or embody negative traits, then standing against them puts you on the side of what’s right and honorable.

This idea has been echoed throughout history. Think about Franklin D. Roosevelt, the U.S. President during the Great Depression and World War II. In his 1932 campaign, he famously asked to be judged by the enemies he made, highlighting a profound truth: the people who stand against you often point to the values you uphold. Roosevelt faced fierce opposition from financial moguls and big corporations because he fought for economic reforms that favored the average American. His enemies were those whose interests were threatened by his policies aimed at fairness and economic stability.

Let’s look at a real-life example. Imagine you’re a whistleblower in a large corporation. You’ve discovered unethical practices—maybe environmental violations or financial fraud—and you choose to speak up. Who becomes your enemy? Likely, it’s those who benefit from the unethical behavior, like corrupt executives. By standing against them, you align yourself with integrity and truth. In this scenario, your enemies highlight your courage and commitment to doing what's right, even at personal risk.

So, how do we apply this wisdom in our daily lives? Here’s a bit of advice: pay attention to who disagrees with you and why. If you find yourself opposed by bullies, cheats, or people who generally undermine good values, take that as a compliment. It means you’re holding your ground for something positive. Don’t shy away from necessary conflicts. They might be uncomfortable, but they underscore your principles.

Now, picture this: you’re at work, and there’s a culture of cutting corners to meet deadlines. It bugs you because you care about quality and honesty. You decide to bring it up in a meeting, suggesting more ethical approaches. Immediately, a few colleagues start grumbling. They see you as a troublemaker. But over time, others start to see your point and respect your integrity, even if it means more work for everyone. Eventually, those who grumbled the loudest—your "enemies" in this context—are those who preferred easier, dishonest shortcuts. Your actions show that you value integrity over ease, and the right people begin to notice.

Remember, having adversaries isn’t always a bad thing. It can mean you’re making a stand. Think about the values at stake and the reasons behind the opposition. Stand firm when it counts. And next time someone’s against you, ask yourself: What does this say about me and my principles? If those answers align with your values, then you’re on the right path.