KEEP THE OLD WARM

The Master said: ‘One does not worry about the fact that other people do not appreciate one. One worries about not appreciating other people.’ – 孔夫子 Master Kong (Confucius) The Analects 1:16

We naturally need to worry about ourselves; our basic needs, our future, our relationships, our health. But, must we worry about being liked, recognized, appreciated? Of course growing up as children, we most often are appreciated, given constant attention, and given cause to be more self-regarding and self-absorbed. Those less lucky may not receive such blessings early on.

However, once we are grown, must we seek to be appreciated? Must we worry about not being appreciated?

Confucius councils us to lead by example; appreciate others, worry about not showing or doing enough. If we are able to worry more about our appreciation of other’s we love instead of worrying about being appreciated ourselves, may we not live with greater peace and happiness?

Don’t you worry! Show your appreciation first and all good deeds will be returned in kind.