Good People

I was watching a show on Netflix today and one of the lines in the show struck me.  The line was, “Good people do good things for other people,” 

What does it mean to be a good person?  Have you ever thought about that?  How can we develop our goodness?

There are several ways to define the word “good”.  We usually think about a person that follows the rules — a person that does not lie, cheat, or steal. We can also ask the other people around someone whether they are good people.  People who know you best will be able to attest to your goodness. Lastly, good people are those that contribute to others and leave the world a better place just by being in it.  

Do you make your decisions with virtue?  If you choose a course of action based on what you think you “ought” to do, you are probably a good person.  You possess a solid moral compass.  If you seek and take advice from trusted advisors, family, and friends, you are probably a decent person. If you have morals that are strong and unwavering your decisions will be those of a morally “good” person. 

If you are able to manage your emotions even if they are negative, you are probably a pretty good person.  When clients yell at you because they have been waiting too long or they don’t like your prices, you keep your cool.  Allowing others to express anger without taking offense is not only “good” but shows emotional maturity and confidence.  If you want to increase your good qualities, practice managing your emotions.

If you treat others that way you wish to be treated, you are indeed a good person.  Doing good requires that we respect the people that share our city, state, and country.  Keeping in mind the rights and needs of all those around you, without prejudice or judgment takes courage and conviction.  Allowing yourself to serve others makes you a good person. 

I like to believe that most people are good people and I know that most people that work in the veterinary profession spend their lives giving their time and energy to others.  In order to enjoy our work, we have to love doing good and knowing that we are creating good for the world.  Think about yourself creating value for others this week and you will create more “good” for yourself.

Dr. Julie Cappel

"No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted."-Aesop

“There is no way that a person who treats others badly when he is unhappy is a good person! A good person is a person who treats others well even when unhappy!” ― Mehmet Murat ildan