The Golden Rule for Living: Lessons from Dad

In a world often filled with complexity and uncertainty, there exists a simple yet profound guide to navigating life’s twists and turns: the Golden Rule for Living. This timeless set of principles, passed down through generations, serves as a compass for ethical behavior and moral integrity. Recently, during a visit with my 86-year-old father, I was reminded of the enduring wisdom encapsulated in these twelve golden rules.

As my dad and I were walking into a little bedroom that my mom had converted into her office years ago after my brother and I left to go out into the world, he said “take a look at this”, he moved some papers he had on his desk and picked up a yellowed piece of paper. It was a fragment of what seemed to be a newspaper article with a piece of tape at the top of this cutout article. I would assume he had, or my mom had this taped on the desk credenza at one time or another, bearing the title "Golden Rules for Living." My curiosity piqued, he handed me the piece of paper to take a look without a word being said. I think it was his way of convey the importance of the piece.

The list comprised twelve succinct directives, each one carrying profound implications for daily life:

1. If you open it, close it.

2. If you turn it on, turn it off.

3. If you unlock it, lock it up.

4. If you break it, admit it.

5. If you can't fix it, call someone who can.

6. If you borrow it, return it.

7. If you value it, take care of it.

8. If you make a mess, clean it up.

9. If you move it, put it back.

10. If it belongs to someone else, get permission to use it.

11. If you don't know how to operate it, leave it alone.

12. If it's none of your business, don't ask questions.

As I reflected on these simple yet profound guidelines, I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the foundational lessons instilled in me by my parents. Growing up, my mom and dad exemplified these principles in their everyday actions, teaching my brother and me not only how to succeed in life but also how to be good, compassionate human beings.

I’m not sure why dad showed me this little cut out article this past weekend on this visit, my dad’s gesture of sharing this weathered piece of paper was a poignant reminder of the values that have guided me throughout my life. From the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions to the significance of respecting others’ belongings and boundaries, these rules serve as pillars upon which to build a life of integrity and kindness.

As I continue my life’s journey, I am reminded of the debt of gratitude I owe to my parents for imparting these invaluable lessons. Their unwavering commitment to leading by example has shaped not only my character but also my approach to relationships, work, and community.

In a world often characterized by rapid change and uncertainty, the Golden Rule for Living offers a timeless anchor—a beacon of light to illuminate our path and guide us towards a life of purpose, fulfillment, and genuine connection. Let us heed its wisdom, honor its teachings, and pass its legacy on to future generations.

As I headed out to drive back to Detroit from my visit with my dad this weekend, I carried with me not only the memory of our time together but also a renewed sense of purpose—a reminder to live each day by the golden rule: to treat others as we wish to be treated, and to strive to make the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time.