Director of Spiritual Care Jim Andrews
One of the hallmarks of great truths is that they echo across all different cultures and religions. One such truth is referred to in Western traditions as the “Golden Rule.” A journalist once polled random strangers to see if an awareness of this “golden rule” was slowly eroding from our collective consciousness. Unfortunately, some of the answers confirmed that concern. My favorite was this one:
Journalist: “Can you tell me what the “Golden Rule” is?
Random stranger: “Sure. The one with the gold makes the rules.”
Not quite the response we were looking for! In spite of its apparent decline, however, the wisdom contained in this maxim can be found in all different traditions (see below!). That says something to us about its importance. So often, when we are faced with all of the complexities of our daily lives, we overlook the simple but profound wisdom of this ubiquitous proverb. Imagine the transforming effect that it would have on our relationships both personal and professional if we but followed this one guideline! So, when things get crazy in our lives, may we find our grounding in this simple, but tried and true rule for living. May it be so!
North American Indian: In the beginning were the Instructions. They are to love and respect all living creatures and Mother Earth.
Hinduism: Do not to another what is disagreeable to yourself.
Judaism: What is hateful to you, do not to your fellow man. That is the entire Law, all the rest is commentary.
Zoroastrianism: That nature alone is good which shall not do unto another whatever is not good for its own self
Bahai: Blessed is he who preferreth his brother before himself.
Islam: None of you is a believer until he desired for his brother what he desired for himself.
Christianity: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
Buddhism: Hurt not others in ways that you yourself would find harmful.
Have a great week, everyone!
Jim