It helps the person who looks within as well as the person who got angry.
When we do not notice the defects of others, we no more give strength to them by extra attention. Besides nobody changes by our telling them that they are wrong. Most often they react by the ego which, in most human beings is hurt if pointed out. Instead of rectifying those whose mistakes we point out end up justifying and hardening their stand. Often we come down at the level of the person who is angry and thereby only perpetuate the ugly vibrations which end up not only affecting both but increase the load of such vibrations upon earth.
On the other hand if instead of reacting we looked within to observe our inner thoughts and feelings we can discover our hidden vulnerabilities and weaknesses, the faultlines that make us react. It is a great progress we can make by learning something about ourselves.
Secondly we often discover that the defect I am observing in someone, say cheating or anger is also within me. That is how one is able to recognize it in others. Perhaps if we discovered the goodness within we may discover it more often in others behind the mask of their defects.
Most important by ignoring them we refuse to give them importance and thereby perpetuating these vibrations.
Most importantly generally it is good to Mind one’s own business and leave others to their ways and the consequences. We are responsible for only our actions.
Of course as always, in application of any truth one should keep in mind the spirit behind rather than following it unintelligently as a rigid formula. For example we have to tell the errors of those for whom we are directly responsible such as children and students or those who have given us the responsibility of shaping them. Though here too pointing out the beautiful positive things is better than frequent criticism which only hardens children, makes them immune and often they identify with the negative quality often pointed out.
So also in certain emergency situations, one may need to stop a person from transgressing the rights of others, hurting or injuring others.
But leaving aside these and few other exceptions, it is best to leave others to their ways instead of engaging in quarrels and retorts. Instead use these occasions for self mastery and growth of consciousness which will have long term better consequences and open doors to endless progress.
Affectionately,
Alok Da
