Every day, we encounter situations that test our humanity, empathy, and ability to act with compassion. Yet, how often do we pause to consider that the tables could turn? That the person we judge, mock, or harm today could be a reflection of who we might become tomorrow? Life is unpredictable, and circumstances can change in an instant. What if it were you?
Before You Judge, Consider the “Why”
Why judge someone for coming late to church, work, or a meeting without first understanding the reason behind it? Perhaps they were battling personal challenges, caring for a sick loved one, or stuck in a situation beyond their control t. IT COULD BE YOU.
Why look down on a person struggling with financial instability or battling addiction? Life throws challenges at everyone, and none of us are immune to misfortune. IT COULD BE YOU.
Why exploit someone’s innocence, whether through manipulation or acts of violence? Before you act, think: What if this were your sister, brother, or child? The world would be a better place if we saw others as extensions of ourselves.
Why promise marriage or commitment to someone you have no intention of being with? Building false hope is not just cruel—it’s destructive. IT COULD BE YOU facing heartbreak.
Why treat others’ children or dependents unfairly while lavishing love on your own? If roles were reversed, how would you feel? IT COULD BE YOUR CHILD being mistreated.
Why let jealousy dictate your actions? Instead of celebrating others’ successes, many choose to undermine, gossip, or sabotage. Why the unnecessary anger when someone else succeeds? Tomorrow, it might be your turn to celebrate. IT COULD BE YOU seeking understanding and support.
Why refuse to help someone in need, even when it’s within your power to do so? We often forget that life has a way of reversing roles. The one in need today might be you tomorrow.
The Holy Scriptures teach us the Golden Rule: “Do to others what you would like them to do to you.” Imagine a world where everyone lived by this principle. If I rise to the top and help you rise too, and you do the same for someone else, the chain of kindness will grow stronger.
But instead, we see a world where selfishness, competition, and envy dominate. Political leaders shed innocent blood for power. Colleagues sabotage one another for promotions. Even friends turn against each other out of greed.
If we continue down this path, the question isn’t just, “What will become of us?” but rather, “What kind of world are we leaving for the next generation?”
It’s time to pause and reflect. The next time you’re tempted to judge, harm, or turn away from someone in need, remember this simple truth: IT COULD BE YOU.
Let us choose compassion over judgment, love over hate, and unity over division. A better world is possible, but it starts with each of us. Together, we can build a society where empathy reigns, and everyone has a chance to thrive.
Let love lead.
Flourish Joshua writes to inspire change, ignite purpose, and provoke reflection.
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