Be kind and compassionate

Everyday we hear or see in newspapers, TV, or computer, stories of war, murder, violence, cruelty and meanness, that takes place everywhere: family, community, nation and the world. Why are some people so mean? Why are some people so violent? Why are some people so cruel? Sadly, these are questions that even our little children ask. These questions, however, may give us opportunity to reflect on the way we live, teach and behave in our families and in our community.

As I pondered on these questions, I came across the Letter of James in the New Testament and found it interesting. It shed some light on these issues.

James says, ?Where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every foul practice. . . . Where do the wars and where do the conflicts among you come from? Is it not from your passions that make war within your members? You covet but do not possess. You kill and envy but you cannot obtain; you fight and wage war.? (James 3:16-4:3)

Nothing is truer than these words. Jealousy and selfish ambition are the sources of conflicts and disorders. Jealousy destroys relationship and community. We desire but cannot fulfill. We want what others have but cannot possess. Instead of joining others in virtue or success, we would rather tear them down and equate the lives of good people with those of immoral people.

Instead of sharing others? joy and glory, we find ways to dismiss their merits. This selfish jealousy often exists in our family and community.

So does selfish ambition. Unselfish ambition, however, is important and helps to bring out the best in us. We often hear people say this man or that woman has strong ambitions.

It is good to determine to make ourselves the best we can be. It is good to invest our energies and talents to try to achieve what we desire. Such ambition, however, should not solely be out of selfishness. It should be also for others. It should help build up community.

Indeed people are mean and cruel and our world is sometimes scary. But it is also beautiful and hopeful. Our world is filled with countless people working selflessly to build a better world. You may have ideas and ways to follow to alleviate the evils. You may have good role models to follow to build up the world. I myself look to Jesus and his life as my model. He requires his disciples to be kind and compassionate instead of mean and cruel.

When we all try, we will build a better world, better than our fondest dreams. We can do this. We must do this. Be kind and compassionate!