Keys To Being A Good Person

As I get older, I find myself caring less about what others think, and I'm also more and more puzzled over the way people behave. But at the same time, I realize I'm not perfect and being a good person is more important to me.

I think we all reach a point in our lives where we try to be better individuals and human beings in general. So I was trying to come up with a list of things you could do to be "good", but I realized it was pointless. It all comes down to one simple principle. No, it's not giving to charity, volunteering, feeding the homeless, or whatever. Even evil people can be charitable, and they do it for mostly selfish reasons so they can feel good about themselves. And even if you give your entire life savings and free time to charity, it still won't make you any good.

No. I've thought about it many times, and I've realized there is one defining quality that all good people share. Honesty.

It's really simple. Without honesty, you'll never be a good person. And I don't really mean by never telling a lie or always telling the truth (like you were taught in gradeschool). What I mean by being honest is first and foremost being honest with yourself. It's really easy to call someone a liar, but it's very difficult to call yourself a liar and recognize your own faults. If you can't be honest with your own thoughts, emotions, feelings, failings, or humanity.... then you will never be a good person.

I guess that's why I don't mind someone who is rude or an asshole sometimes. Atleast they are honest. I'd much rather deal with them than deal with dishonest people who hide behind social insecurities.

So there you have it. My life lesson #1294. Okay I just made that number up, but I think it's a very important one for me. Be honest with yourself before you try to be honest with others. And don't be afraid of people who are honest. They may be the best people you'll ever meet.