America, despite all of her current woes, still remains the
greatest country in the world. One of our ultimate freedoms is the right to
openly express ourselves without fear of retribution. Journalists, reporters
and news broadcasters are all guaranteed protection under the Constitution.
Free speech isn't as free as some believe. With it comes an
expectation of great responsibility and respect for the rights of others and a
strong moral code of behavior. Within our own families we often blurt out
whatever we want without regard to how the other party may feel upon hearing
it. We can be rude, hurtful, mean-spirited, and hateful. "It's a free
country. I can say whatever I want and if they can't deal with it, oh well! Too
bad! That's not my problem." This arrogant attitude reeks of selfishness
and disrespect. The cost of "free speech" can be wounded self-esteem,
fractured relationships, alienation, damaged reputations, and in cases such as
the Journal, putting others in harm's way.
While I fully support the First Amendment and encourage open
and honest expression of one's feelings, I also believe we have a
responsibility to take great care in the way we exercise our right. My rights
do not supersede the rights of others. So before speaking, consider the
following questions:
- Is what I'm about to say or do kind?
- Does it emanate from a place of love for all parties?
- Is it based on truth rather than speculation, lies, jealousies or my own insecurities?
- Does it care for the well-being of all those concerned?
- Does it take into consideration the feelings and needs of the other?
- Is it absolutely the best choice I can make at this time?
- Will it achieve long-lasting and far-reaching benefits for all those concerned?*
In all areas of life we have options as
to how we handle ourselves. Let us vow to always make choices that are life-affirming
and beneficial to all of humanity.
*The Great Truth @ www.pfeifferpowerseminars.com/pps1-products.html
No comments:
Post a Comment