Do Unto Others
The Golden Rule
All over the world, there exists a simple precept that, when followed, has thepower to end conflict and banish strife. It is the Golden Rule, a key concept inmany philosophies and spiritualities that admonishes us to "do unto others as wewould have them do unto us." Its meaning is clear: treat others only in waysthat you would want to be treated. However, the golden rule is not always easyto follow. It can be a challenge to honor others as we wish to be honored. Yet,when we do so, we bestow a gift of loving kindness on our fellow human beings.And, in honoring others, we honor ourselves.
It is as uncomplicated a tenet as one could wish for. When we live by it,harming another person becomes nearly impossible. The Golden Rule is rooted inpure empathy and does not compel us to perform any specific act. Rather, itgently guides us to never let our actions toward others be out of harmony withour own desires. The Golden Rule asks us to be aware of the effect our words andactions may have on another person and to imagine ourselves in their place. Itcalls on us to ask ourselves how we would feel if what we were about to do weredirected toward us. And yet this rule invites us to do more than not harmothers. It suggests that we look for opportunities to behave toward others inthe same ways that we would want others to act toward us. Showing compassion,being considerate of others, caring for the less fortunate, and givinggenerously are what can result when you follow the Golden Rule.
Adhering to the Golden Rule whenever possible can have a positive effect on theworld around you because kindness begets kindness. In doing so, you generate aflow of positive energy that enfolds everyone you encounter in peace, goodwill,and harmony.
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