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"人が人以上の存在だと信じることはなんて裏切り者なんだ。"

John Green
John Green Author
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Quote meaning
Believing someone is more than just a person can be quite a tricky, even dangerous, mindset. It’s about putting people on pedestals, thinking they’re perfect or somehow above the everyday struggles that the rest of us face. This can lead to all kinds of problems, both for us and for the people we're idealizing.

Think back to when this might have been said. It could be in the context of hero worship, celebrity culture, or even in romantic relationships. When we see someone as more than human, our expectations of them can become unrealistic. When they inevitably fail or show their human flaws, we feel let down. Because guess what? They're just as human as we are, with their own set of problems, insecurities, and imperfections.

Let's take a real-life example. Remember when practically everyone adored that famous athlete—whatever sport you're into, you can think of someone. They were on top of the world, winning championships, and everyone admired them. But then, news broke out that they made a significant mistake, perhaps a scandal or a string of poor choices. The public reaction? Shock, anger, disappointment. People felt betrayed because they had made the athlete into this flawless superhero in their minds. But the truth is, they were always just human, capable of great things but also of making mistakes.

So, how do you apply this wisdom? Start by reminding yourself that everyone, no matter how talented or seemingly perfect, has their own struggles. It’s okay to admire people and look up to them, but keep it grounded. Appreciate their talents and achievements without expecting them to be flawless. This way, you’re less likely to be disappointed when they show their humanity.

Imagine you're starting a new job, and there's that one colleague who everyone says is amazing. They’re the top performer, always ahead of deadlines, and their work is flawless. You might be tempted to think they're some kind of superhuman. But if you get to know them, you might find out that they have their own set of challenges—they might struggle with anxiety, or maybe they spend countless late nights working to keep up that image. Understanding that they’re human too, with their own battles, can make you feel more connected and less intimidated.

This brings us to a relatable scenario. Let's say you meet your favorite author at a book signing. You’ve read every one of their books, and to you, they seem like an untouchable genius. But when you talk to them, you realize they’re nervous about public speaking, they fumble their words, and they’re just as human as anyone else. It’s a humbling experience, and it makes you appreciate them even more, not less, because you see the hard work and vulnerability behind their success.

So, next time you find yourself putting someone on a pedestal, take a step back. Remember that they’re just as human as you, with their own flaws and fears. Admire them, yes, but keep it real. In the end, it’s about having a balanced perspective—seeing the greatness in others without losing sight of their humanity.
Related tags
Existence Expectations Humanity Identity Illusion Meaning Perception Personhood Philosophy Self-awareness
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