From Christianity to Buddhism, from Islam to Hinduism....this one basic rule of behavior is taught. "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you".
At heart, every human being on earth wants to be happy. Within all the particular ways in which we seek a joyous life, certain broad rules apply. It's not difficult to understand that if you wish to be treated in a certain way, according to your rules of happiness, that the best place to start is to treat others in a similar fashion.
The Golden Rule carries with it no guarantees. Everyone would have to adhere to it for it to be a certain road to happiness. But it does give you a fighting chance in world filled with strangers, pitfalls, and unknown circumstances. By treating everyone you meet as you want them to treat you, your world has the potential to be bereft of enemies and filled with friends.
from "Yo Meow Ma" by Joanna Sandsmark
Unfortunately, we don't hear about the Golden Rule very often any more. And, yet, in a "shrinking" world, and interacting with more disparate neighbors, it is more important than ever. We don't win by fighting with them. We only win when everyone makes an honest attempt to treat each other....especially those apparently different from ourselves.....the way we would like to be treated ourselves.
