What’s Right and What’s Wrong?

     Is there any moral code(s) you live by as you navigate this thing called life?

     Do these moral codes guide you to be grateful and have more empathy towards others?

     The most religious holidays for the largest religions in the world began in February and will continue into April. There is the Muslim observance of Ramadan and Eid that ended yesterday. The Christians observance of Ash Wednesday with lent leads up to the Easter holiday in April. Then there is the Jewish observance of Passover that will begin in less than 2 weeks and last for a few days. Each of these events includes practices that are to bring followers closer to the higher being and celebrates the freedom given to their people. So, in a time where so much is going on and we may feel as if moral codes are going down the drain, I present to you 5 morals I feel can go a long way for us during this time.

1. Gratitude: Giving thanks to what you have can increase happiness and strengthen relationships. As people, we lose connections to each other when life is treated like a competition. There is room for us all. Appreciating the pluses in your life even if there is more to achieve is something to note.
2. Compassion: Active listening is not a skill that comes easily, but it is one to practice. When we listen, we often validate the other person’s thoughts and feelings and offer support accordingly. We can become more and more in tune with many people as we navigate the world.
3. Respect: The value of a person is great. Acknowledging and understanding a person for who they are is important. Even in times of indifference, respecting who the person is reaffirms their value as a person and as a member of society.
4. Fairness: We were all created to be on this Earth. Then, we should all be equal in society. But over the course of hundreds of years, humans have transformed this definition.
5. Accountability: Being responsible for your actions. Being honest, but accepting the consequences if you fail to do so.

     Whether you participate in any of the mentioned religions or choose to not be guided by a particular faith, know we were all created to be moral beings. Our morality is what defines a society and it is something we must continue to think about. It is one we much teach to younger generations. And, it is one I hope we can get back to.