Ancient Wisdom for Modern Life
We often hear the saying, “Good people have good fortune.” This phrase, rooted in thousands of years of Chinese wisdom, serves as a guiding light in our journey through life. It reminds us that those with kind hearts are often favored by destiny.
What exactly is “good fortune”? Some might see it as divine favor or a stroke of luck. But to me, it’s more about cause and effect. Good fortune is the result of kind actions and the positive response they attract. As Laozi wrote in the Tao Te Ching, “The Way of Heaven is impartial; it always favors the good.” This timeless message tells us that hard work is rewarded and kindness is repaid. While a higher power may not favor anyone specifically, it does look out for those with kind intentions.
Greatness in the Ordinary
Good people are all around us. They are not distant figures or extraordinary heroes, but ordinary individuals who make a difference. Think of the stranger who helps a lost elderly person on the street, the friend who lends a hand in tough times, or the volunteer who quietly gives back to society. These are the good people, the kind-hearted ones. Through their actions, they embody kindness and resilience, warming the world with their efforts.
Kindness is one of the most beautiful qualities of humanity. It’s like sunshine, brightening the lives of others and warming our own. But kindness is not just about being gentle-hearted; it’s about taking action. As the ancients said, “Good deeds travel far and bring blessings for generations.” Kind people are not just nice inside; they turn their kindness into action. They help others without hesitation when they see someone in trouble and stand up for what’s right. Though these actions may seem small, they can gather into a powerful force that changes the world.
Start with the Little Things
Kindness is best expressed through small, everyday actions. It doesn’t matter how big or small the act is; what matters is whether you do it with a sincere heart. The old saying goes, “Never ignore a good deed just because it’s small.” Those seemingly insignificant actions might be the turning point in your life. For example, giving directions to a stranger, helping a neighbor carry something heavy, or even offering a warm smile—these small acts of kindness can spark a fire that spreads. They not only make others feel good but also build up your own good fortune.
Be Your Own Light
Self-reliance is just as important as kindness. Truly kind people are also self-reliant because a higher power does not favor those who give up on themselves. The I Ching says, “Heaven helps those who help themselves, and all will be well.” This means that only through hard work can you earn divine favor. Self-reliance is an inner strength that keeps you going in tough times and helps you grow through challenges. When you use your efforts to create a better life, a higher power will open doors for you.
Harmony with the World: Unity of Heaven and Humanity
The concept of “unity of heaven and humanity” is an ancient understanding of the universe and life. Each of us is a small universe, while the greater universe is the all-encompassing force around us. When we live in harmony with the world through our kindness and efforts, we can experience this unity. Kindness and self-reliance are like ways of communicating with the world. When you treat others kindly and stand strong on your own, the world will respond with warmth.
Start Now
We all seek good fortune in life, hoping for divine favor. But true good people don’t rely on luck; they start with themselves and begin right now. Self-cultivation and self-improvement are lifelong lessons. Kindness is the lighthouse in our hearts, and self-reliance is the power that drives us forward. When we use kindness to warm others and self-reliance to shape our lives, we naturally become good people and earn divine favor.
In this complex world, let’s all strive to be good people. Treat everyone with a kind heart and create your own future through self-reliant actions. Believe in yourself, trust the power of kindness, and embrace the miracles of self-reliance. Because good people have good fortune, and kind-hearted souls have divine support.