Growing up I used to think that being a good person meant behaving in a way that made other people happy.
As long as they were happy I was a good person.
As long as they were pleased with my behavior, and I stayed quiet and smiled, I was a good person.
As long as I avoided confrontations and arguments, and did everything they wanted and expected of me, I was a good person.
I spent many years trying to be who others wanted me to be, under the belief that it meant I was good, until I realized I was wrong, they were wrong, and being good has nothing to do with the opinion of others. It has nothing to do with pleasing others, seeking their approval and acceptance, or avoiding disagreements by remaining silent. It has nothing to do with being perfect or appearing flawless.
Being a good person is expressed in the way you treat others. In the way you respect and value them. In the way you encourage, empower, and inspire them to be the best they can be.
Being a good person is loving people just the way they are without trying to change them.
Being a good person means being nice to everyone, with no exceptions. It means giving without expecting anything in return and learning to appreciate and value people wherever they may find themselves in life’s journey.
Being a good person is treating others the same way you would like to be treated.
#beyou #joannecortes #goldenrule
