“Our prime purpose in this life is to help others. And if you can’t help them, at least don’t hurt them.” -Dalai Lama
“ So this is Christmas and what have you done?” asks a pensive John Lennon in his song also known as Happy Xmas(War is Over.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yN4Uu0OlmTg&w=420&h=315%5D
With the upcoming holidays and the world on the brink of what seems like another war, this 1963 song seems eerily relevant today. Around the globe the coming of the new year is met with holiday celebrations and the symbolism of a fresh start. Instead of looking back, consider the future rather then harbor any regrets, and instead make up your mind to change them as you move forward. The impending holidays also bring to the forefront of people’s minds the spirit of altruism. While We can’t all spend our days giving 100% of ourselves to charity, We can at least vow to be a positive influence on ourselves and others, rather then a negative one. As humans it’s all too easy to be self centered, and our selfishly motivated decisions can sometimes hurt others. What many people don’t fully realize is that in helping others you actually help yourself too. Therefore in giving you’re also receiving, it’s a win-win situation! As the new year brings with it renewed motivation for personal goals, why not with it a new vision? A vision that is geared more towards equality, peace, positivity, and altruism. The consideration We have for the good of mankind should be in the forefront more then once a year, or only reserved for when a tragedy strikes. The larger question that looms is “Can these things be brought about on a regular basis, rather then just by Santa Claus or new year resolutions?” The good news is that you don’t have to wait for someone else to answer this question, because you can. Each of us has a choice everyday rather then just once a year to pursue dreams, set new goals, be a positive influence , and to help others. Don’t just meet each new year with zest and motivation but how about each new day?
Tomorrow is new and cheers!