Most of the world's major religions embrace some form of the "Golden Rule" - Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. It seems like such a simple rule to follow, but after thousands of years one has only to read a newspaper or watch the evening news to realize that humanity STILL hasn't gotten it right.
If the Golden Rule were to be taken literally and applied to our everyday lives as they really are then:
If you have stolen from someone then you have given them permission to steal from you.
If you have cheated on your spouse, then you're promoting distrust and dishonesty.
If you judge someone merely for having different beliefs and customs it could lead to retaliation, even war.
If you claim to hate LGBT people then you're promoting disrespect toward all people.
If you make fun of and bully others then you're saying that violence and verbal abuse are acceptable.
Think about this!
Is this how YOU want to be treated?
Don't steal- give. This will evoke a sense of gratitude and you'll probably receive something in return.
Don't cheat - communicate. Try to resolve your problems fairly and honestly. If you can't then part ways and move on.
Don't judge - Respect. Ask questions about another person's beliefs and customs and chances are they'll ask about yours. You may not agree with one another, but both of you will have learned something new and started down a path toward enlightenment.
Don't hate - be an ally. It's okay if you don't understand LGBT people. Just treat them with the same respect and kindness that you would show anyone else. You may be surprised to learn that they have the same feelings and are not so very different from you. This realization will help build a bridge of understanding.
Don't bully - defend. If you come to the defense of someone who is being bullied, you will have gained a friend for life.
