What's Our #1 Rule?
Animals: Tradition - Philosophy - Religion

FROM Craig Cline
April 2020

What rule-of-life do we share in common — one that applies equally to all of us — one that most of us know by heart? The Golden Rule...

What rule-of-life do we share in common — one that applies equally to all of us — one that most of us know by heart?

“The Golden Rule,” you say. Right! Let’s call it “The GR,” for short.

Over two billion followers of the Christian faith give the rule that particular name. However, the moral and ethical precept underlying the name is embraced by all the world’s major religions, so the beauty of its message is known to over five billion people.

Though “The GR” is generally associated with religions, anyone can choose to practice it — as humanity’s rule has universal applicability.

Most of us find it easier to recite “The GR” than to live up to it. Why don’t we change that scenario? How about if we pledge to live a Golden Rule-guided lifestyle?

Such a pledge is especially needed today. Right now, everyone everywhere is contending with the daunting challenges of the contagious COVID-19 pandemic.

What if, as a boost to our battle with this challenge, and others in life, we personally pledge to make “The GR” contagious — and spread its power far and wide?

I propose adopting a contemporary version of “The GR;” one that’s essentially all-encompassing and applicable in virtually all situations:

“Do for all others, both directly and indirectly, what you would want done for you.”

And, “Don’t do to any others, either directly or indirectly, what you wouldn’t want done to you.”

Very simple — very expansive — very beneficial — very powerful.

April 5th is International Golden Rule Day/IGRD. This is a 24-hour event which, among other things, presents YouTube videos from all over the world, including North America. Check out www.goldenruleday.org. The FAQ tab provides a good overview.

Also take a look at goldenruleproject.org. Among its goals: “Unite with others who represent a striving toward compassion, fairness and respect for our plan-et Earth.”

When we adopt “The GR” in its expanded application, we benefit not only ourselves, but also the one-and-only planet we all share.

I think of young environmental advocate Greta Thunberg and her book No One Is Too Small To Make A Difference. In it, she says: “We have to change.”

I hope you agree with Greta that we all can choose to change — and that we all can choose to make a difference — each in our own ways. Doesn’t it seem there could be no more important time than right now for us to do just that?

These days, we hear the phrase: “We’re all in this together.” Indeed we are. Once we start living in deep accord with “The Golden Rule,” we’ll go onward and upward from there — together. So will you please share this Golden Rule-guided message?

Among the best ways for us “Golden Rulers” to live up to our guiding rule is to continuously give every bit of support we can to our local nonprofit organiza-tions — because “The Golden Rule” is the foundation of their deeply beneficial work.

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Craig Cline is a longtime Salem resident who likes to help our local nonprofit organizations in various ways, given their inestimable value to our community. He practices a vegan lifestyle for reasons of personal health, the health of our environment, and compassion for all animals. Reach him at 503-364-2448.

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