Which is Greater, to be an intellectual or to be a good person? →

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Does your universe see you? Of course, it does because you create your universe in everything you do and your actions. The question is, do you know who you are?

Both intellect and goodness inspire me. Some people in our lives stand out for having one or the other of these traits, and a few stand out for both.

When we look at our own life experiences and those of others we have encountered and ask ourselves who has one or the other of these two traits - the more common or universal trait to come to mind is those who are good people.

Goodness exists in abundance and is what it is, not because it surpasses the worth of others, but because it is present. On the other hand, intellect stands out partly because it sets one apart from others.

Of these two traits, the satisfaction in my life is more profound for those that reflect goodness because it seems to be the essence of the person’s identity. In contrast, those I have known who have struck me as intellectual have not left me with the impression that the scope of their insight and knowledge is manifested in all they do.

Doing Good is Important and it Connects Us →

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Religion involves an individual's devotion or passion for something they consider essential. Abraham Lincoln believed that performing good deeds was significant enough to be deemed the most important pursuit. Some individuals may perform good deeds because they think it is expected of them by their God, while others may consider it their religious duty. Lincoln's statement indicates that performing good acts is of paramount significance.

Performing good deeds encompasses acts of kindness and actions that benefit others, focusing on benefiting people other than oneself. On the other hand, performing well involves achieving a state of balance, reaching personal objectives, and attaining worldly happiness. However, an individual doing well may only perform a few good deeds.

Kindness plays a vital role in connecting individuals with others. It is essential to be kind to others as it helps meet their needs, strengthens existing connections, and creates new ones. For example, the person sitting next to you may be facing challenges you are unaware of. Our experiences and struggles teach us how difficult life can be. They also instill a sense of compassion and empathy within us, prompting us to be kind to others.

The Power of Kindness: Why It's Important to Show Empathy and Compassion →

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Kindness is an essential quality that we should all strive to cultivate. It allows us to respond to the challenges that others face, even when we may not be aware of the difficulties they are going through. When we show kindness and empathy, we establish meaningful connections with those around us, which can be especially important during difficult times.

In addition, being kind to others can also positively affect us, helping us shift our focus away from our problems and assist in personal growth.

We can develop positive relationships with acquaintances, loved ones, and strangers by demonstrating kindness and empathy. This is because kindness fosters empathy, compassion, and appreciation, which can enhance our relationships with others. In turn, this connection can help combat feelings of loneliness, common symptoms of depression.

Ultimately, kindness is about doing the right thing and having the bravery to do it. It requires us to be thoughtful, considerate, and compassionate, even when it may be difficult. However, the benefits of kindness are undeniable, both for those around us and for ourselves. So let's spread kindness wherever we go, and make the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time.

Why is Good, Good: Is the reason the intent, or is it the result? →

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What is it about things that people do that make them good? This question can be approached by trying to present what is considered good and comparing it to what is considered harmful. This suggests that all good things have opposites, meaning there is value in looking for the opposite virtue and comparing.

“Doing good” is a short way of saying doing good deeds and doing things that are good for others, and performing actions that benefit people other than oneself.

“Doing well” might mean “good enough” rather than good? Even so, doing well would mean achieving a healthy equilibrium for oneself, reaching personal goals, and attaining a good measure of worldly happiness.

If a person intends to do good, but the outcome is terrible, is intent the measure, or is it the result? The answer is that intent is not the measure of goodness- good is.

The opposite question would be if a person intended to harm and good came from the effort, then was that person doing good or bad. The intent might be the object of the person’s actions rather than the results, but still, the effects outweigh the goal.

In his book Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis said there is “A Universal Moral Law.” Finding the applicable law would certainly help with this type of question.