Blaming has been around as long as man has had a finger to point. In the very first Biblical story recorded in Genesis we find blame as one of man's original behaviors. Adam blamed Eve for his behavior and Eve blamed the talking serpent for her behavior.

There is the question as to why either of these individuals would want to blame someone or something else. It is easy to see their reasoning behind the transfer of responsibility. They thought they were "in trouble". They were afraid of the negative consequences for their behaviors, thus they began to excuse themselves. This event seemed very unpleasant for them. In order for the stress of potential devine litigation to be removed each of these once loving partners began the process of self-preservation. There is no apparent thought of personal responsibility for one's behavior only a hopeful shift in negative consequences from themselves to the other. With a friend, spouse or partner like that who needs enemies?

One of the first steps toward maturity, spirituality and human greatness is the willingness to take responsibility for oneself. That includes such things as one's thinking, one's behavior and one's emotions. It is easy to see how each of the characters in the Biblical story played a role in the other's behavior. But, to say that one made the other think what they thought, feel what they felt or do what they did is incorrect. Each of the characters was directed by their individual thinking. No one can have a biological thought for anyone else. It is a medical impossibility. And, since our lives are directed by our individual thoughts, we cannot blame anyone for our feelings, thoughts or behaviors even though others may play a role in each of them.

It may be liberating to adhere to the notion that one has power and control over oneself. Taking responsibility for oneself eliminates the middle man and gives the one with the brain all the power. This is a powerful start in the right direction for those considering giving up their role of victim.