The right way

 

"Daang matuwid" (the straight way) should not be a mere slogan for the Philippine government. It should be a way of life for each Filipino...
when those who have more choose to serve and not to be served,
when respect is dictated not by social status or position but simply because we are human beings and are worthy of respect,
when simplicity of life is chosen so that others who have less opportunities in life may have their due share,
when we live by principles and not by the prevailing crowd mentality,
when we are more concerned and more passionate about creating a better life for others than with the pettiness of the personal lives of others,
when we can argue and disagree without killing each other (physically or otherwise).
It is not something new. The right way is the way of Jesus. It is not an easy way, and we know the price Jesus paid for it. But it is the only way that can change the world. Because the world, structures, are just reflections of what is in our heart.
Let the change begin in me.

Principles

To live by principles is a sign of maturity.
But how do we know the authenticity of our principles?
True principles are guided by universal values that don't change, that don't become outdated by the passage of time, values that are not dependent on gender, race or social class.
Here is the test: We live by authentic principles when, in spite of being alone we are at peace. Otherwise, it is only egoism.

Choices

One of the root causes of our miseries is our tendency to limit our criteria in making judgments to expediency and self-interest. Instead what is needed is to become persons whose judgments are based on principles. Perhaps my choices may cause me to suffer or to let go of certain comforts, but in the end they are truly beneficial not only to me but to my community and to the future generations.

Principles

To decide based on expediency and practicality is a short cut to self-destruction.