What Is Doing Good?
In the last post it was said “we do good by doing a good”. That might raise the question of just what is good or a good?
We know, it comes under the headings of kindness, compassion, a listening heart, charity,…….
So how do you do good or a good, or know what is good?
Let’s start with
“That which is hateful to you, do not do unto others” – Hillel.
Make a list of “that which is hateful to you”. As you make the list, think of the times that those things were done to you and how that made you feel. Keep in mind that done to you also means said to you. Remember the list and let it be a guide as you are about to do to another or say to another.
Just like the development of any good habit, with enough repetition, you won’t have to consciously refer to the list.
The people you come into contact with might consciously or unconsciously pick up that same habit. Wouldn’t that be good!
Never forget in all you say and do to elevate yourself. Never allow an unkind to cause you to respond in kind.
Here are some things I’m sure we would all not find hateful done unto us and therefore these are good to do unto others
Always wear a smile
Make someone smile or laugh
Actually listen to the answer when you ask someone how they are and respond accordingly
tell someone who matters to you, that they do and how much
stay in touch and return phone calls, texts, emails……
Keep promises
Visit the sick
Volunteer
Give charity
By using the comment box, Please share with me and the other readers what else you think belongs on the list
Heart and Soul
P.S. I wrote this as a reminder to you as well as to myself.
It is not what we receive that enriches our lives, it is what we give. 😉
you’re so right and so well said. thank you Cheryl
Love the message Fred Fox.
Thank you Deborah
Thank you, Fred. Having a “list” is a huge help for some of us. There are the Ten Commandments, Eight-fold Path, Yoga’s Yamas and Niyamas, and now Rebe Fred’s “What is doing Good.”
After 73 years of struggling to understand the depths of philosophy and religion, I believe these kinds of “simple” guideposts (thank you), help me to act and journey wisely. Best, Jocko
Thank you Jocko
I think you put good into play instinctually
Love this Fred – mazel tov
Thank You so much Jeri
The third Chabad Rebbe explained the teaching from the sage Hillel to mean that just as we are not perfect, yet wake up each day and ignore those faults within us because of our own self love. So too when we see that same fault in someone else, we should overlook and it too. Hence loving a person like your self.
A wonderful additional teaching coming from a real Rabbi:)
Thanjk You
Thank you for the inspirational words
Thank you