Village Report | September 2024

September 1, 2024 | Jen Griffin, Vice President of Engagement

The Golden Rule: A Blueprint for a Better World

All of our lives we have known about Golden Rule. In the Bible, Matthew 7:12, the scripture directs “In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.” Confucius similarly observed, “Do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself.” Also, one of Islam’s first principles is to treat others as you would like to be treated. Clearly, this simple yet profound maxim is a blueprint for creating a more harmonious and just world.

The 2024 Paris Olympics are a prime example of this overriding philosophy. It struck me this year how so many athletes congratulated the other athletes on their accomplishments. Maybe that has always been the case, but somehow this year it was more obvious to me than in years past – perhaps because of the global unrest we are experiencing? I don’t know, but I definitely noticed heightened appreciation between the athletes.

The Olympics showcase the extraordinary feat of human achievement. This year, more than 10,000 athletes from over 200 nations came together in a spirit of competition, camaraderie, and respect. As the world now turns its attention to the Paralympic Games, we can anticipate another inspiring display of human resilience and determination – overcoming physical adversity to compete on a global level. At the heart of these global competitions is the timeless principle of the Golden Rule.

In the “for profit” arena of business, the Golden Rule can sometimes be overlooked in the pursuit of profit. Yet, studies consistently show that non-profits with strong ethical foundations out-perform their for-profit competitors. The message there is that treating employees, customers, and partners with respect and fairness fosters loyalty, trust, and long-term success.

The current global landscape, fraught with division and polarization, would benefit from a greater emphasis on the Golden Rule. Seeking common ground and treating opponents with dignity and respect is essential for effective governance. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

While the Golden Rule might seem idealistic in today’s complex world, it remains a useful philosophy and a powerful force for positive change. By incorporating this principle into our personal, professional, and civic lives, we can create a ripple effect of kindness and compassion that extends far beyond ourselves. As Eleanor Roosevelt famously stated, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”

And as many Olympians shared in their interviews, they were grateful for their success and knew they could not have lived their dreams without the support of many who encouraged them and worked with them to achieve world level success.

I am proud to work in a faith-based community where kindness prevails. We consistently work together for a common good and manage to squeeze in joy in the process. Thank you all for embodying the Golden Rule in all that we do. Together, we lift one another up for success. I love that!

Go Back