Although his actual existence remains unclear, Aesop is credited with both writing and collecting more than 750 fables and morality tales, including the Tortoise and the Hare and The Boy Who Cried Wolf. Aristotle and other individuals living in ancient times, including notable Romans, do suggest that Aesop was an actual person. However, with more than 2,500 years having passed, accurate documentation of his life has been lost in the fog of time.
Extensive research shows that being kind has significant benefits for both the giver and the receiver. People who take the time to be kind to others experience increased levels of healthy hormones, including oxytocin (David Hamilton, 2017) and serotonin and dopamine (Journal of Psychology and Scientific American). Frankly, those individuals who go out of their way to be kind to others recognize that life for many can be hard, messy and complex. Charles Glassman MD, captured this concept with the comment that “Kindness begins with the understanding that we all struggle.” And perhaps these days that statement might have even more of a “ring” to it given that 35% of all Canadians cannot meet their monthly expenses and more than 50% report that they are less than $200 a month away from insolvency. Scary stuff! So, at this festive time of year, please consider reaching out to someone less fortunate with a deed of compassion. As well, I urge you to consider passing this Quote of the Month along to your entire team – so they can think about “touching” someone as well. As a final thought on the matter, please consider the words of Sydney Smith, an English writer born more than 250 years ago...
"It is the greatest of all mistakes to do nothing because you can only do little.”
Have a great holiday!
Perform Better!
