Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Doing the Right Thing

What is doing the right thing? Is it our public persona or showing up for the right events or donating to the right cause? There are some people who want to be seen doing 'the right thing'.

They miss the point. You don't do the right thing because other people thank you or think you are a fine person but simply because it is the right thing to do. Period!

It is who we are all of the time and especially when no one is looking and therefore would not notice if we don't do the right thing. It is a way of life that gives meaning to our lives through our daily practice an enriches us.

So some people don't need to just look good but to also live a good life by example without seeking only those things that bring recognition from others.

Remember that we choose how we live regardless of our circumstances.

Your thoughts?

6 conversations:

Sandee said...

It's how we feel about ourselves for doing the right thing(s). That's the yardstick I use. I do like your analogy of doing the right thing even when no one is looking. I've lived by those words all my life. I've failed a time or two, but mostly that was my approach.

Hope all is well with you Peter. You are in my thoughts daily. Give the mistress of the house my regards. :)

Brad K. said...

This seems like a religious position. Some people do a lot of good in their community and the world, and recognition is part of their reward or wages.

Others are content to know they help someone, and avoid recognition - they feel lessening someone's burden or correcting a wrong, or creating an opportunity is all that is needed, they don't have a need for attention to themselves, their assistance, or those being assisted. These people also create an aura of goodwill about them.

Which is more effective? Those who are visibly helpful remind others to be helpful, and encourage those that should seek help.

The quietly helpful affect their community in more subtle fashions.

I think both approaches can be powerful. And that it may come down to religious teachings, community consensus, family upbringing, and self image that decides which is better for any particular individual, at any particular time.

Blessed be!

Peter Haslam said...

not religious brad just an observation that doing the right thing has its own reward which is also sometimes recognition

Peter Haslam said...

Cleo says hi sandee and having some rough spots but progressing :)

Izabela Bogdanovic said...

I know many that will do good because they are weak to refuse to help. I have a special name for these people (it is not appropriate for this blog).

Seems bad taste to write about how good and great I am. I do not care for that kind of self-marketing. It is cheap without being lucrative.

Peter Haslam said...

thanks for joining the conversation izabela :)