“Do unto others as you want done unto you.” Or in layman’s terms, “Treat people the way you want to be treated."
The Golden Rule is probably the very first life lesson learned by most of us. It’s a practical rule and for the most part, very basic. However, remembering the Golden Rule and practicing what it says are two completely different concepts.
For as long as I can remember, I have been reminded of this rule. ’ve heard it in many forms, but the underlying meaning is always the same.
When being disciplined as young children, adults repeatedly ask the same [trick] question, “How would you like it if someone did that to you?” Well, of course kids are going to say they wouldn’t like it – what kid would? Then they get to hear part two of the common sense lesson, "Then why would you do it to someone else?"
How many times did you hear that as a child? (Now for the kicker.) How many times have you asked it from a child?
For those of us who are parents and/or have authority over children, have you ever reminded a child of the Golden Rule then realize how often you fail to abide by it?
I am guilty of it more than I care to admit. There have been several times when I’ve heard kids make comments about someone based on their looks. I correct them by pointing out their lack of knowledge about that person; then I turn around and judge someone based on the moment, not necessarily by the truth. I’m waiting for the day when a child reminds me of the Golden Rule.
Saying “Please" and "Thank You” is also basic and fairly simple to do. When you ask someone for something, it doesn’t take any extra effort to include the word, "please." Likewise, when someone does something for you and you are gracious, saying "thank you" should be an automatic response.
What about people who misuse words? Does being polite give someone a license to be rude?
Which polite word or phrase would you say is the most abused? I think it’s, “excuse me.”
Have you ever noticed how some people say “excuse me” yet they have no patience or they do not give you time to respond? It’s as though saying it gives immediate access to pass go.
Recently while at a minor league baseball game, a lady seated in my row wanted to exit and did not want to wait. With a loud tone, she repeatedly said, “excuse me” and forged ahead, stepping on toes, kicking over drinks and upsetting the entire row. On her return, she did the very same thing without giving anyone the chance to stand or clear the path.
On another day, I was standing in line at the grocery store when a woman carrying a few items excused herself and stepped in front of me. At first I didn’t put a lot of thought into her actions, but then I noticed she moved ahead and began the check out process.
Apparently, the Golden Rule does not apply to everyone! I can only imagine how some would react if people did to them what they do to others.
