The Ten Bright Ideas 


A joke I attribute to Garrison Keillor says that, if Unitarians had an equivalent of The Ten Commandments, they would refer to them as "The Ten Suggestions". In this year of judge Charles Moore of Alabama, when the posting of The Ten Commandments in public buildings has been so controversial, I offer you this collection of "Ten Bright Ideas", which are sufficiently secular to be posted anywhere without violating the separation of church and state. These are inspired by a combination of the belief statement of World Pantheism, the Desiderata, and other secular life principles that I've been collecting from Pythagoras, Alan Watts, Carl Sagan, my High School English teacher, Mr. Hull, and others more anonymous. I'm calling these "Bright Ideas" in recognition of the Brights.  

Respect and revere the universe, your home. Be thankful for its natural bounty of life, and cherish it. You are a child of the universe, and you are here to serve it.

Treat others as you would be treated. Prepare to defend yourself when necessary, but cooperate with those of ideals and integrity, and forgive inadvertent offenses.

Dream up an exuberant passion in life. Go boldly where your passion takes you. It is the best form of self-propulsion.

Observe moderation in all things, including moderation. Conserve what you value. Delight in all that lives and all that supports life.

Aspire to a legacy of healthy children and contributions to the community. Pay it forward to coming generations.

Speak the truth quietly but firmly, and shun intrigues. Listen to others carefully but critically, before acting. Respect breeds respect.

Think critically, with imagination, but avoid superstition. Question authority. No human is free who cannot command him- or her-self.

Enjoy the benefits of humor and humility. Don't take yourself too seriously. Apologize for your mistakes, learn from them, and blush when appropriate.

Be optimistic and push yourself to the edge of your confidence. For all its challenges, frustrations, and suffering, it's a beautiful world that rewards hope and effort.

Accept aging but conserve your health, as you enjoy it. Death follows life, but you will live on through your descendants and good works.  

Posted: Sun - October 31, 2004 at 11:54 a.m.         | |

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