On the Brighter Side

Peaceful Greetings Everyone,

Recent travels have spurred on some conversations between Betty and I about the character of man. As we traveled the country side of France recently, we of course encountered many people from various backgrounds. We interacted with people from the cities, the countryside, from very small villages, and everything in between. We found ourselves looking beyond our surroundings and the actions of the moment. We began to subconsciously note how we felt relating directly from how we were being treated, and from the observations of how others acted and reacted to various forces.

Our talks touched on the people that went way out of their way to help us, but we sometimes found ourselves lingering on circumstances that were less enjoyable and recounting how they made us feel and how we thought people should act and feel in particular instances.

On the Brighter Side

As these conversations continued we found ourselves being more in tune with how we act and sometimes react to certain situations. We became aware that each of us, when we encountered an individual that didn't meet our expectations, we first examined what it was that disappointed us, thought about how they should have acted. Then we reflected on how we have acted in the past to similar situations and how we should act when the situation is presented to us again.

Somewhere in the countryside of France, Betty and I realized that we needed to examine ourselves instead of dwelling on others behavior that in most cases we had no influence over. I found this quote that sums up exactly what we discovered.

When we see men of a contrary character, we should turn inwards and examine ourselves.
Confucius (551 BC - 479 BC)

The obvious question that comes to mind when I read this quote is, "Contrary to what?". If this was recorded over 2500 years ago, how could it still be relative? The answer is simple. Human beings are prone to always look outward at the forces that shape circumstances and seldom look inward to ask, "Am I part of the problem? Do I display the virtues I desire in others?" If everyone did that, every time they were disappointed and reshaped their behaviors and those of the ones they have influence over, the glow of human kindness would outshine the sun.

I have hope that in some Nirvana in the future all people will follow the golden rule. You remember, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you". I have hope that starting now, from the moment you read this, each time you are disappointed with someone, that you turn inward, reflect on what you do, commit to model the behavior you want portrayed by others, give freely, and always..........Look on the bright side of life.

To a great future,
Robert