Thursday, December 14, 2023
The golden rule is cited as a simple guide for a better world. In principle it makes perfect sense, in practice, I’ve got questions. “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” What about those times when emotions overtake us, and we know not what we do? Haven’t you been overcome and don’t feel like “yourself?” Lapses in consciousness happen to everyone. We must allow for those instances when people are simply blind to their actions towards us. I’m not saying we shouldn’t hold people accountable, but what do you really want people to do unto you?
Would you have them leave you alone, be just like you, or treat you nice all the time? Who is nice all the time? Wouldn’t you just rather they just be themselves? It’s the surprises, the outbursts, the childish ways of others that teach us the most. It’s the egotistical maniacs, the impatient people, and the “weirdos” that make us reflect and grow. It’s those who have harmed us the most who have brought about the most amount of growth. We’re all weirdos, unpredictable and unknowable – yet we expect others to be “normal,” and treat us with decency, respect, and kindness all the time. That’s the devil, hiding and laughing inside you!
If everyone were saints, we’d miss the fallen. If everyone did what they ought to do, we’d start missing the people who did what they ought not to do. Truthfully, you don’t know what you want people to do unto you no more than you know yourself. Perhaps we just allow others to be themselves. The surprises, the devils, and the outbursts will come out. Who doesn’t have those? Do you know how hard it is to be a human? Everyone is on an independent learning journey. Chances are they are doing their best, and that’s golden enough for me.