Words to Live By - The Three Gates
Sometimes, you read a quote or adage that makes you want to share it. This is one of them and I thought it's so appropriate for the beginning of a new year.
Before you speak, let your words pass through three gates.
At the first gate, as yourself, “Is it true?”
At the second gate ask, “Is it necessary?”
At the third gate ask, “Is it kind?”
~ Sufi Saying
While this really doesn’t have much to do with writing fiction, as an author, it’s a great way to live life.
According to Psychology Today,
“Kindness is defined as the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate. Affection, gentleness, warmth, concern, and care are words that are associated with kindness. While kindness has a connotation of meaning someone is naive or weak, that is not the case. Being kind often requires courage and strength. Kindness is an interpersonal skill.”
Come to think of it, a children’s books on the virtues of kindness, as long as it’s done subtly!
This post was originally published at: https://karencioffiwritingforchildren.com/2019/10/06/words-to-live-by-the-three-gates/
Wishing everyone a wonderful New Year!
3 comments:
Karen,
What a profound saying about the three gates--with pointed questions. I don't believe I had read this before but I loved it. Thank you. Happy New Year.
Terry
Terry, I agree it an amazing saying. I love it too and thought it was the perfect time to post it!
Very nice. The kind reminder is much needed in these times!
Best,
Carolyn Howard-Johnson
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