There are people who feel like a flaming sword — the kind Peterson writes about in “We Who Wrestle with God,” burning away everything unworthy just by standing near them. We avert our eyes, or we try to dim their light.
Analyzing my own reactions to such people I found envy, a reminder of failures, or weaknesses or a sense of a vast gap in the strength of the spirit. All of this is accompanied by a feeling of internal constriction and resentment, although it could be associated with the aspiration to achieve more and become better. This however requires accepting one’s own imperfections, which is valuable in itself, but also makes being near the ideal less scorching. Perhaps if you have never felt this way, you are already pure enough inside.
By default, people pull others to their level. A drug addict offers you the first taste. An expert shares what they know. A good friend brings warmth. Some close the gap so they don’t look worse by comparison. Others pull you toward the light.
I hope I am the second kind. Not a dead hand grabbing at your ankle, pulling you down into the swamp.
P.S.: By the way, Israel can be freely translated as “We Who Wrestle with God.”