Hello, mi neighbour! | You have a right to fight to do what’s right

Hello, mi neighbour!

Fight with all your might! You have a right to fight to do what’s right under all circumstances! Let no one rob you of this freedom. It’s a priceless freedom that pays high dividends until the end! Even if you are being threatened, bribed or placed under peer pressure, community pressure or even family pressure, stand your ground, moreso in a world where “true right” is fast becoming unpopular. In some quarters, ‘right’ is now determined by personal preferences rather than what is universally or biblically accepted. That kind of right, my friend, is ‘false right’. Those who yield to it will suffer loss, those who “yield not to (this) temptation” will have the last laugh by the end of the day. Fight on!

You have a right to be honest, integrous, fair, forgiving, patient, loving and kind. Don’t give it up! Your future depends on it! Being honest means speaking the truth, even when it’s difficult. This builds trust and credibility with others. People who are integrous live by a strong moral code, consistent with their values, which earns them respect and a good reputation. Be one of those persons!

Fair-minded people aim for equality/impartiality, and treat others justly and without bias. Be one of them, and be happy!

Constant forgiveness constantly releases the forgiver from the destructive effects of resentment and anger. They experience the peace which leads to healing and restoration as they show mercy and compassion to others. Become a beneficiary! We can do it!

Whenever we exercise our right to be patient in difficult situations, the self-control exercised is well worth it. Don’t flinch!

Love is often unconditional and unwavering. Love shows compassion and kindness. It involves sacrifice and selflessness. Keep on fighting to be a true lover – an unconditional lover!

So we know that

· honesty promotes transparency and credibility in our relationships, as we take responsibility for our actions

· integrity inspires others to follow morality and fosters trust and respect in personal and professional relationships

· fairness ensures equal treatment and helps build a more harmonious society

· forgiveness repairs, strengthens relationships and leads to physical and emotional healing

· patience promotes understanding and empathy and resilience.

We also know that, when these virtues are missing from our homes and the society in general, it will lead to:

· distrust

· corruption

· exploitation.

· social unrest

· instability.

· social injustice

· conflict

· resentment

· cycles of violence

· emotional pain etc.

By cultivating the above virtues, therefore, individuals are better positioned to contribute to a more compassionate and harmonious society. It requires effort, commitment, and a willingness to lead by example. Here are some ways to do so:

if we demonstrate honesty in our own words and actions at home and abroad, we’ll foster an environment where family members, co-workers, etc. will feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.

If as a people we are transparent in our practices and policies, and take responsibility for our actions, not just mouthing nice-sounding words, ‘wi gone clear’.

Then, if we recognise, admit and address our negative biases and prejudices, try to be fair in all aspects of life, forgive and encourage others to do the same, empathise with ‘he, she and old lady’, ‘wi sitting nice’.

And here are some easy doables to memorise and practise night and day:

mindfulness and self-awareness.

patience with self and others

personal growth

community building and social connections

share these virtues wth others

Share stories that illustrate the importance of these virtues.

Now, let’s form some work groups and start leading by example as we cultivate these virtues in our communities. Anyone would like to join my group?

By cultivating honesty, integrity, fairness, forgiveness, patience, and love, our society will become more harmonious, just, compassionate and fruitful! By the way, remember to eat your daily fruits. Good for your health!

KINDLY HELP A NEIGHBOUR WITH ONE OF THE FOLLOWING:

1. Stove

2. Refrigerator

3. Bed

4. Food

5. Help with medication

6. Financial assistance to start a little business

To help, please call Silton Townsend @ 876 649-9636 or deposit in acct #351 044 276 NCB. Alternatively, send donations to Hello Neighbour C/o 53 Half-Way Tree Road, Kingston 10; Paypal/credit card: email: zicron22@yahoo.com. Contact email: helloneighbour@yahoo.com. Visit hellomineighbourja.blogspot.com. Townsend exclusively manages the collections and distributions mentioned in this column and is neither an employee nor agent of The Gleaner.