ENVY

Definition of Envy:
Feeling of discontented or resentful longing aroused by someone else’s possessions, qualities, or luck.

Synonyms of Envy:
Jealousy, enviousness, covetousness, desire, etc.

These notes are from recovery in AA and/or related 12 step programs.
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We hope you find them helpful.

Love in fellowship.

Envy occurs when we lack a desired attribute enjoyed by another. Jealousy occurs when something we already possess (usually a special relationship) is threatened by a third person.

Envy usually doesn’t contain a sense of betrayal and resultant outrage. Jealousy need not contain an acute sense of inferiority (if the rival is not enviable). Psychology Today | More…

No emotion brings us more personal pain or wastes more of our time than envy.
Shakespeare called envy the green sickness

Just how foolish envy truly is becomes clear when we think of it as a row of hooks on which to hang grudges. When we envy others, we blind ourselves to the good we could see in all people. –Today’s Gift | More…

After feeling envious, we need to return to our own lives with enthusiasm.
While we may not be able to do what others do or have what others have, our lives are filled with experiences that can make us rich and able people.

Regardless of who we are, what we own, or how we live, each of us is living a very important life — complete with pain, memories, and pleasure. –One More Day | More…