Seeing People as Trees: How Non-Judgmentalism Promotes Nonviolence

Seeing People as Trees: How Non-Judgmentalism Promotes Nonviolence

The quote “When you see people as trees, you don’t get tangled up in their branches” by Ram Dass highlights the idea that when we choose to see people as we see trees, we can avoid getting caught up in their flaws and imperfections. We can appreciate the unique beauty and complexity of each individual without getting embroiled in judgment or criticism.

This non-judgmental attitude is key to nonviolence, both in our personal interactions and in larger social and political contexts.

When we can approach others without judgment, we are more likely to respond to conflicts and disagreements with empathy and understanding, rather than with anger or aggression. And in recognising interconnectedness and the impact of systemic injustices, we can actively work to dismantle them.