The Truth About Judgment (and the Space Between Us)

Exploring judgment, discernment, and finding clarity in a divided world.

Judgment is a funny thing. We’re told not to do it—and yet, we must. It helps us discern what’s safe, what aligns, what’s right for us.

But lately, I’ve been noticing how quickly judgment can become something else:
A wall.
A weapon.
A reason to dismiss another human being entirely.

I recently had a moment where my own judgment came rushing in—fast and sharp. I saw someone whose choices and outward appearance struck a chord of deep dissonance in me. I had an immediate, visceral reaction. And then I judged myself for it.

It got me wondering: where does discernment end, and condemnation begin?

We live in a world that rewards outrage, tribalism, and black-and-white thinking. Especially in politics. And yet… what if we stopped trying to pick sides, and started trying to stay whole?

I don’t fully align with any one political party. I see value—and flaw—in both. But what I long for most is honesty. Compassion. The ability to be fierce in our truth and gentle in our humanity.

So I’m asking myself, again and again:
Is this judgment making me more loving, or more closed?

And I invite you to reflect with me:

How do we stand firm in our truth while staying open to someone else’s humanity?