In its most straightforward format, having morals means knowing right from wrong and good from evil. Science has proven that we are born morally innate. Meaning, we are a clean slate when choosing right from wrong. This observation leads us to our next set of questions. What is right? Who decided it was right? Once again, to keep our explanation simple, it comes down to survival and ease of life. Stress produces cortisol, and this does not bring comfort. Happiness brings dopamine which in turn makes us feel good. If a scenario brings joy, then we tend to repeat it. Morning coffee is the best example. In general, we love that first-morning sip of that black nectar we call java. That is until we mistakenly put salt in our coffee instead of sugar. (good experience/ bad experience)

We could spend all day making a list of good morals. These are the acts we do every day that help ourselves and others around us. We know what brings happiness. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a compliment or holding the door for others. These traits begin as young as three months old while we observe our new world. We learn what brings anger and what brings happiness. A parent or guardian is the first-line definition of our morals. Then, we go outside and learn to make new friends. Their morals may differ from ours. This is when we know what to do when there is a conflict of morals. We either fight, talk, or agree to disagree. If we are fortunate enough, we may learn that having different views on what is morally right or wrong is how we choose our peers. 

Just as there are good morals, there are bad morals. No matter how we justify it, the unlawful killing of another person is murder. Notice the unlawful portion. As a society, we have boundaries for our actions. A set of rules dictates what we can or cannot do. This helps us understand where to draw the line between right and wrong. What one person deems as permissible may prove to be unsightly to others. Just ask the gentleman who has six fixer-uppers on his front lawn. A person can have bad morals. That is to say, what a person believes is good for them may not be suitable for everyone. Good morals are beneficial for the individual and the group.

A person who tells the truth is considered honest. Unless, they use the truth to spread animosity. Meet enough people and this deceptor will appear. Telling the truth is only good if our intentions are good. Immoral actions don’t produce moral results. And there we have it. Our intentions, mindset, and attitude determines the purpose of our actions. Did we do is for the good of others and ourselves or were we struck by bitterness. Revenge and vengeance are hot topics in Hollywood. An onslaught of characters who were wronged but they made it “right.” There are no winners in a “tit for tat” behavior. As we reciprocate the harmful action back to our transgressor we try to one-up our foe. Of course they now have the same idea. This volleys back and forth until someone gets hurt, injured, or killed. Yes, people have died from a simple game of “I got you back.” Whatif we were to not seek vengeance. What would happen? Most of the time, people pick at each other to see who they can get a rise from. The loudest or most annoyed is rewarded with more picking. This is one aspect of bullying. A casual joke every now and again is not bad, but a behavioral pattern of this may show signs of mental health issues. This doesn’t mean that they are crazy or psychotic. We are stating that they may just be bored, stressed, or just trying to get attention. 

We must learn for ourselves good morals. People are not perfect and at times may exhibit bad behaviors that we learn. Even though we may pick up bad habits from others, we are responsible for our actions. Never blame others for the acts we commit. Take responsibility and move forward. By exhibiting a good standard of morals, we become a paragon of professionalism. Be mindful of the intentions here. It is not couth to do the right things for attention. That’s not how good morals work. Instead, focus on self-betterment. As we correct our flaws we will find other aspect to improve. This leads us down a path of becoming a role model for others. Take the time to evaluate your morals, and weed out the negativity. It’s that simple. 

Until the next blog, live life, be happy and click the like.