I am feeling a bit philosophical this evening.
I want your views on 'envy'. Twice recently I have been told 'I envy you' when discussing my accommodation. I feel very uncomfortable on hearing it. I think they were trying to congratulate me, but 'envy' is not an emotion I have experienced and I cannot appreciate why some people do.
Envy - Definition and More from the Free Merriam-Webster Dictionary
"painful or resentful awareness of an advantage enjoyed by another joined with a desire to possess the same advantage ".
The 'resentful' aspect is what causes me disquiet. I feel sure that they don't resent my home comforts, but their improper use of 'envy' conveyed that they did.
It was only when I felt uncomfortable about the use of the word, that I searched back in my memories to realise that I can honestly say I have never felt 'envy'.
I want them to say they are happy that I am more comfortable now, not that they resent me being so.
Please don't misuse the word - it is an expression of a negative emotion, which, if you feel it, is best not expressed.
If you think I am just polishing my halo, I don't mind you saying so -
