August 27, 2023 | Issue #83

1 Quote. 1 Reflection. 1 Question.

1 Quote.

"I have always believed that most people are mostly, good most of the time."

1 Reflection.

Despite what you see on TV, read on social media, or hear from your friends, the vast majority of the world is good. 

-Yes, an airline will misplace your bag. 

-Yes, a police officer will make the wrong arrest. 

-Yes, a doctor will get sued for malpractice. 

-Yes, a server will get your order wrong. 

So, what should we do about these situations? Should we stop calling the police, going to the doctor, or eating out at restaurants? 

The answer is no. We should remind ourselves that everyone is human, and humans make mistakes. This is harder to realize now because we live in a world of filters, algorithms, and instant gratification. Any inconveniences in the modern day can set us off pretty quickly. 

Forgiveness, empathy, understanding, perspective, and compassion are all values that will help us understand our fellow humans, and help us keep our cool. Former President Gerald R. Ford displayed these values when he pardoned his predecessor, Richard M. Nixon despite the public's disapproval. 

He was honored for that act by the John F. Kennedy Library with its Profile in Courage award. Many people questioned why he did it but looking back people understood by pardoning Nixon, the country was able to heal faster, and come together stronger. It was a time when America needed to heal from Vietnam and Watergate. Ford orchestrated the healing process by forgiving Nixon via the pardon. 

Later in his remarks, Ford said

"As far as I'm concerned, there are no enemies in politics--just temporary opponents who might vote with you on the next Roll Call."

Life is like politics, we don't have any true enemies—just temporary opponents. 

1 Question.

How do feel after you forgive someone when you clearly know they were in the wrong?