The Golden Rule
Gnome Your Neighbor is a weekend dedicated to building connections with the people you may pass everyday without even paying attention. People who might make your life a little easier or more beautiful. People who are each carrying their own unimaginable load. My Gnome on the Roam is based in Nashville, TN and it seems more important than ever to take opportunities to reach out with a bit of kindness on a week like this.
Most of us have heard of the Golden Rule. Do unto others as you would have done unto you. Love your neighbor. It’s a message that crosses every invisible line. (Link to blog) It’s written about in the Bible, the Torah (judiasim), the Qu’ran, and in Hindu writings, the message is the same.
There are other holy books and messengers as well. Mr Rogers comes to mind. “I believe that appreciation is a holy thing--that when we look for what's best in a person we happen to be with at the moment, we're doing what God does all the time. So in loving and appreciating our neighbor, we're participating in something sacred.”
“Love your neighbor” is almost universally ascribed to. The phrase is often quoted. Many would consider it an American value. Yet there are daily examples of angry and violent acts perpetrated on others, on neighbors. Perhaps the word "neighbor" is being too narrowly defined. Perhaps those who are in need of our love should be more specifically named.
Love your neighbor - the person with a skin color that is different from yours.
Love your neighbor - the person whose political beliefs you do not agree with.
Love your neighbor - the homeless person sleeping on the sidewalk.
Love your neighbor - the person with a gender identity you might not understand.
Love your neighbor - the immigrant whose only crime is wanting a better life for their family.
Love your neighbor - the thousands around the world suffering from the effects of war and famine.” -Kaye Cassidy
During Gnome Your Neighbor there are chances to reach out with tiny acts or kindness. But make no mistake, tiny acts done with great love are holy. And I think it’s important to think about the word neighbor and who might most benefit from our kindness.
For more information about this year’s “Gnome Your Neighbor” event or to get involved by hosting your own challenge or joining one near you please visit mygnomeontheroam.com/gnomeyourneighbor