Human nature has not changed in over 5,000 years of recorded history. And, the seven deadly sins are with us still. For those of you not raised in any of the Christian traditions, the seven deadly sins are (in alphabetical order, not in terms of grievousness): Envy, Gluttony, Greed, Lust, Pride, Sloth, and Wrath. Envy, gluttony, greed, lust, and pride are easily understood. Sloth and wrath perhaps not so much, because sloth equates to laziness, and wrath is anger in simple terms.
Sadly, all human beings, with rare exceptions, suffer from each one of these sins, even the holiest or most spiritual among us. The question is always before us: Why? I have my own answer to that question. However, it suffices to recognize these sins exist in our world today. And perhaps, they have become even more prevalent, as I look around me. I sincerely wish it were otherwise.
Combating the Seven Deadly Sins
I would submit that the first way to combat these transgressions against right behavior is to recognize that the seven sins exist; this is awareness regarding what confronts us as human beings. The second strategy is to believe that we can change and become better human beings. I remember Jim Rohn saying on his audiotape programs and in his seminars that “If we will change, everything will change for us.” What better place to start than with personal change. We can become better human beings by changing our inner-thinking and our outer behavior.
A Simple Call to Action
I have a magnet on my refrigerator that simply states: Begin Within. I translate that simple phrase if I want to change the world, as I must start with myself.
I will also leave you with a quote from Peace Pilgrim that applies in this context as well, to wit: “It isn’t enough just to do right things and say right things, you must also think right things before your life can come into harmony.” Please ponder that most profound thought. If you do nothing else for the remainder of 2020, follow this one simple dictum.
Outbound Link to Peace Pilgrim: https://www.peacepilgrim.org/
Internal Link: https://whitebeardwisdom.com/thoughts-from-the-peanut-gallery/