Before we react with anger and disgust and annoyance
Before we mock and shame and humiliate
Before we act in self-profit without consideration
of the rippling consequences that come with any action or inaction
Before we speak our stubborn opinions
Before we condemn and criticize with brute or intelligent words
Before we judge and expect and demand
Before we boast our righteousness and superiority
Ask ourselves
How many hungry people have I fed
How many neglected children have I nurtured
How many of the depressed have I given warmth
How many downtrodden have I defended and helped
How many students have I enlightened
How many differences have I welcomed
How many of the old and dying have I embraced
How many genuine smiles have I lit
How many times have I forgiven
How many letters of grief have I written
How many thanks have I given
How many miserable souls have I shown kindness...
including myself, and how often?
