The Power of Positive Treatment: Why It Matters in Human Interactions
It is a well-known truism that treating others in a positive manner is essential if we desire to be treated positively ourselves. This fundamental principle holds true because human beings possess the freedom to make choices and behave accordingly. We have the power to choose how we perceive and interact with others, whether we see them as good or bad.
Human value, despite its inherent nature, is largely a social construct. History has shown us the devastating consequences of devaluing and dehumanizing others. Examples such as American racists and Adolf Hitler serve as stark reminders of the destructive potential when individuals choose to view others as worthless and treat them accordingly. These instances highlight the importance of recognizing the inherent worth and value of every individual.
It is crucial to acknowledge that we have the capacity to harm or even kill others if we choose to do so, regardless of any laws in place. History has witnessed countless instances where individuals, driven by their own prejudices and biases, have inflicted harm upon their fellow human beings. The exploitation and enslavement of black people by white Americans in the past is a prime example of such cowardly behavior.
However, it is essential to note that the power to choose how we treat others extends beyond legal obligations. It is a matter of personal responsibility and moral character. While laws can provide a framework for acceptable behavior, true change and progress come from within each individual. We must actively choose to treat others with respect, kindness, and empathy, regardless of societal norms or legal consequences.
The Ripple Effect of Positive Treatment
When we choose to treat others in a positive manner, we create a ripple effect that extends far beyond the immediate interaction. Our actions have the power to inspire and influence others, shaping a more compassionate and inclusive society. By valuing and respecting every individual, we contribute to a collective mindset that promotes equality and understanding.
Positive treatment fosters a sense of trust and cooperation among individuals. When we approach others with kindness and empathy, we create an environment where open communication and collaboration thrive. This, in turn, leads to stronger relationships, increased productivity, and a more harmonious coexistence.
Moreover, positive treatment has a profound impact on our own well-being. When we choose to see the good in others and treat them with kindness, we cultivate a positive mindset and outlook on life. Studies have shown that acts of kindness and compassion release endorphins, the "feel-good" hormones, promoting overall mental and emotional well-being.
Breaking the Cycle
Breaking the cycle of negative treatment starts with each individual recognizing their own biases and prejudices. It requires a willingness to challenge our preconceived notions and actively seek understanding and empathy. By examining our own beliefs and attitudes, we can begin to dismantle the harmful patterns that perpetuate discrimination and mistreatment.
Education and exposure to diverse perspectives play a crucial role in breaking the cycle of negative treatment. By engaging in meaningful conversations and learning from different cultures and backgrounds, we broaden our understanding of the world and develop a more inclusive mindset. This, in turn, enables us to treat others with the respect and dignity they deserve.
It is also important to remember that change takes time and effort. Breaking deeply ingrained patterns of negative treatment requires consistent self-reflection and a commitment to growth. It is a journey that requires patience, empathy, and a willingness to learn from our mistakes.
Conclusion
Treating others in a positive manner is not just a moral obligation; it is a fundamental aspect of creating a harmonious and inclusive society. By recognizing the inherent worth and value of every individual, we contribute to a world where kindness, empathy, and respect prevail. It is through our actions that we have the power to shape the future and break the cycle of negative treatment. Let us choose to treat others with positivity, and in doing so, inspire a ripple effect of compassion and understanding.
After UCLA College of Letters where I obtained PhD is Philosophy, Psychology and Religion I got a teaching job at the University. I felt uneasy teaching. I applied for a job in the mental health field; I got many offers and within two years was running the mental health center where I worked, supervising psychologists and psychiatrists who have been in that field for many decades.
Eventually, I felt bored by the job (of been executive director...I was barely thirty two years old when I was the executive director of the largest mental health agency in the city where I lived) and quit and tried doing other things.
Nothing I tried worked out for me. So, I did other executive director jobs but eventually wound up quitting and returning to college teaching until I felt that teaching is too easy for me; I felt unchallenged being a college professor (I filled my time writing on assorted subjects that interested me).
Eventually, I realized that I have a destiny and fate. My normal routine is to read until I go to sleep (although there is a huge TV in the house, I seldom watch it) and get up around 5 AM, think for a while, and then go to my computer and type the thoughts that I just had in my sleep.