To Judge or Not to Judge: A Reflection on Wisdom and Compassion

In a world that moves fast and often judges even faster, I find it crucial to pause and reflect on my own actions. It’s easy to fall into the trap of snap judgments, assumptions, and reactions based on limited understanding. However, a deeper wisdom reminds me to take a step back and seek a broader perspective.

This is why Traditions 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous resonate so deeply with me:

"AA has no opinion on outside issues; hence the AA name ought never be drawn into public controversy." – Tradition 10

"Our public relations policy is based on attraction rather than promotion; we need always maintain personal anonymity at the level of press, radio, and films." – Tradition 11

These principles guide AA to remain focused on its mission rather than getting entangled in external disputes. They remind me that wisdom often lies in humility, neutrality, and understanding rather than in argument or judgment. In many ways, these traditions serve as a call to be a light in a world of shadows and dark thought—to respond with patience and reflection rather than impulsivity and condemnation.

The Power of Perspective

I am strengthened by the wisdom found in literature and scripture, which reinforce the idea that judgment should be approached with great caution—or, better yet, replaced with compassion:

“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view... Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it.” – Harper Lee, To Kill a Mockingbird

“Judge not the play before the play is done.” – William Shakespeare, Measure for Measure

“Let us not therefore judge one another anymore: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way.” – Romans 14:13

“There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?” – James 4:12

“Now it is better that a man should be judged of God than of man, for the judgments of God are always just, but the judgments of man are not always just.” – Mosiah 29:12

Each of these quotes carries a profound message: judgment belongs to a higher wisdom, not to us. Our understanding is incomplete, our perspectives are limited, and our biases often lead us astray. Instead of being quick to judge, we are invited to approach others with curiosity, empathy, and grace.

Choosing Compassion Over Judgment

If we truly wish to make a difference in our own lives and the lives of those around us, we must judge less and understand more. This doesn’t mean ignoring right and wrong or failing to stand for our values—it simply means recognizing that every person has a story, a struggle, and a reason for the choices they make.

By following the wisdom of AA’s traditions, the scriptures, and timeless literature, we can cultivate a mindset of humility and kindness. Instead of assuming we know everything about someone, let’s seek to listen, learn, and love—for in doing so, we become the light in a world too often clouded by judgment.

So, the next time we feel the urge to judge, let’s pause. Let’s ask ourselves: Am I adding light or shadow? Am I building up or tearing down? In the end, it’s not just about withholding judgment—it’s about replacing it with something greater: understanding, compassion, and grace.