Do Unto Others
The Golden Rule
All over the
world, there exists a simple precept that, when followed, has the power to end
conflict and banish strife. It is the Golden Rule, a key concept in many
philosophies and spiritualities that admonishes us to "do unto others as we
would have them do unto us." Its meaning is clear: treat others only in ways
that you would want to be treated. However, the golden rule is not always easy
to 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 in pure empathy and does not compel
us to perform any specific act. Rather, it gently guides us to never let our
actions toward others be out of harmony with our own desires. The Golden Rule
asks us to be aware of the effect our words and actions may have on another
person and to imagine ourselves in their place. It calls on us to ask ourselves
how we would feel if what we were about to do were directed toward us. And yet
this rule invites us to do more than not harm others. It suggests that we look
for opportunities to behave toward others in the same ways that we would want
others to act toward us. Showing compassion, being considerate of others, caring
for the less fortunate, and giving generously are what can result when you
follow the Golden Rule.
Adhering to the Golden Rule whenever possible
can have a positive effect on the world around you because kindness begets
kindness. In doing so, you generate a flow of positive energy that enfolds
everyone you encounter in peace, goodwill, and harmony.