DANIEL J. PAUL

“The time is always right to do the right thing.”

— Dr. Martin Luther King

Striking the pavement, cascading down the lane, were the sounds of logs that had been ejected from the truck bed. As they rolled down the incline, the traffic in both lanes suddenly ground to a halt. Drivers sat frozen in their vehicles, seemingly mesmerized and perplexed on what to do next. So much so, that time seemed to move in slow motion.

Suddenly, from the vehicles emerged a few men, who almost by innate instinct, took charge automatically of the situation. It was as if they were programmed. One group removed the logs while the others directed traffic. Once accomplished, traffic resumed, and those that spontaneously reacted went about their lives.

How many of us have been faced with situations (maybe not to the above degree) and have made the choice to help resolve the problem? In the aftermath, one may experience the warm feeling of self-satisfaction and fulfillment, of doing the right thing.

On the flip-side are individuals who sometimes opt not to be involved for reasons known only to them. Through this inaction, they may possibly experience emptiness, sadness, and regret for what they could have done or said, but didn’t.

I have personally observed the above situation and have marveled on how instantly some are confronted with a problem and rise to the occasion while others do not take action. What is within us that causes some to act and leaves others merely puzzled and paralyzed? Is there some way we can prepare ourselves to be one of those that instinctively act?

Consider what might prevent you from spontaneously acting when a situation calls for a solution. Then, if opportunity unveils itself, try to step up, intervene, and come to the aid of an individual or situation (by all means, keeping in mind that safety should be paramount). Acting on this may positively impact others. (Oh, by the way, I attempted to assist in the above scenario, but was thwarted by speed coupled with age.)

“When you do the right thing, you get the feeling of peace and serenity associated with it. Do it again and again.”

— Roy T. Bennett

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Daniel J. Paul is a retired school administrator. His articles focus on education, old-fashioned family values, relationships and other topics. Contact him at meaningfuldifferences@gmail.com.