The Golden Rule

by Sarah Elliott, Delta Omega (Murray State University), Rituals, Traditions, and Jewelry Committee

The Golden rule is a principle all major religions have in common. It is stated several different ways, but the meaning remains the same:

• Christianity: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”.
• Buddhism: “Treat not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful”.
• Islam: “Not one of you truly believes until you wish for others what you wish for yourself.”
• Judaism: “What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor. This is the whole Torah; all the rest is commentary.”

How does this principle work with our sisterhood?  We all know that the past couple of years have not been easy in many ways. With that in mind, do we try to put ourselves in the other person’s shoes when there is conflict?  Do we try to see things from their perspective or consider what may be going on in their lives that we might not know? When we disagree with someone or they make us angry, it can be hard to stop and take into consideration what else may be going on, however, wouldn’t we want others to give us that consideration?

How about in situations regarding our Membership Integrity Committee?  When a sister meets with the committee, do we show her kindness and tolerance, like we would want for ourselves? Or are we judgmental and lacking in consideration for what our sister may be going through? What has led her to make the decisions that she has? Do we keep our Ritual and the values of our sisterhood in the forefront as we make decisions that will greatly affect another sister?

The Golden Rule is a principle many of us have heard since childhood. It seems simple in theory, but do we put it into practice?  It is easy enough to do so. Lead by example, show others love and tolerance and see the ripple effect this can have. This a simple principle that can easily be incorporated into our everyday life and make an incredible impact on others. No matter our background, we can all relate to the Golden Rule and apply it to the values of our Ritual.

From the 1928 Founders’ Day letter signed by the Founders: “Are we as a fraternity, as chapters, and as individuals, enlarging the circle of our sympathies, or are we content to keep them as limited as they were yesterday, last month, or last year? … Are we making an effort to combat that dislike and seek out and bring out the best that is in them? Are we endeavoring, while we stand on our own feet morally and intellectually, to understand and appreciate the virtues of those who do not think as we do religiously, or act as we do socially? … Are we striving courageously to stand for the ideals of kindness?”

A century ago, our Founders strived to have a positive impact on the world around them. Let us also strive to make a difference and show kindness and grace just as we would want in return.

You may contact the Rituals, Traditions, and Jewelry Committee (RT&J) about anything Ritual-related at RT&J@alphaomicronpi.org