by Gerald Gonzales, Ph.D.
Article originally published on LinkedIn, 8/16/23
"Honk… honk."
The driver behind me impatiently honked just a split second after the traffic light turned green. It was a stark reminder of the impatience and aggression that can surface in everyday interactions.
Little did that driver know that a mere four months prior, a pickup truck had run a red light and collided with my family's car at an intersection early Sunday morning. Since that fateful accident, my approach to driving has shifted. Caution took precedence over haste, and I became acutely aware of drivers disregarding traffic signals, even running red lights.
This recurring experience of impatience and inconsideration echoed a recent article from The Atlantic (link provided below). The piece highlighted a distressing trend: a growing prevalence of impatience and plain meanness in our society.
The insights the author, David Brooks, shared resonated deeply with me. He explored various factors contributing to this societal shift--from the impact of social media to the mental health crisis, economic inequality, and heightened social isolation. At its core, Brooks pointed out a fundamental issue: a decline in our ability to treat one another with genuine kindness and consideration.
This void in moral education is starkly evident in our daily lives. Acts of selflessness, humility, and unconditional positive regard seem to be dwindling. But I believe there's a way forward—a call to action to reintroduce kindness and consideration into our interactions: embracing the Platinum Rule.
Growing up, I was familiar with the Golden Rule—treat others as you wish to be treated. Over time, I realized its limitations. And then, I encountered the Platinum Rule—a revelation that shifted my perspective.
The Platinum Rule is simple yet profound: "Treat others as they wish to be treated."
Within the span of a heartbeat, between an event and our response, there exists a realm of possibility. By tapping into this space, we can transform our interactions, communities, and culture. We can make a conscious choice to consider how others yearn to be treated.
Indeed, nurturing kindness in our interactions lays the foundation for our moral growth and collective transformation. Let's commit to the Platinum Rule, breathing life into a society that thrives on genuine consideration and respect for one another. Join me on this journey toward a kinder, more compassionate America.
---
Komentar