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(In: Free Inquiry, June/July 2005 Vol. 25 No. 4, published by the Council for Secular Humanism)
"We present a selection of aphorisms and maxims of good will that deserve to be  highlighted.

 
We should strive to:
  • Express an affirmative attitude toward others and ourselves.
  • Compliment people if they do well; be polite, honest and considerate.
  • Focus on the best in individuals, not their faults or shortcomings.
  • Applaud people's achievements, appreciate their creativity, respect their uniqueness.
  • Learn tot forgive and forget, to heal and respect, to modify and improve.
  • Do not return evil act for evil act; do not be vengeful, vindictive or spiteful.
  • Learn to make exceptions, be flexible.
  • Be willing to change your mind and to admit when you are wrong.
  • Try to help others if you can; be pleased if they succeed.
  • Abandon jealousy, hatred, cynicism, revenge or greed.
  • Enjoy life, lessen your complaints, point out life's beauty or value, not its imperfections.
  • Instead of bemoaning your fate or blaming others, pitch in and try to improve the situation.
  • Seek to better the human condition, be constructive.
  • Recognize that no one is perfect.
  • Accept people for what they are, including their idiosyncrasies.
  • Give people some latitude to succeed and achieve, and they will.
  • Respect innovation, individuality, creativity and honest dissent.
  • Have the courage of your convictions; do not be afraid to express them.
  • Exude a cheerful, optimistic, affirmative attitude, especially where conditions warrant it.
  • Focus on potential good, not possible evil; honor, not betrayal; collegiality, not hatred; justice, not injustice.
  • Hold people accountable if they have been immoral; protect those they harm; ask for reparations if they are due; be merciful and understanding.
  • Compromise differences; negotiate solutions.
  • Avoid violence or force and seek a peaceful resolution of differences.
  • Try to find common ground, shared moral principles, and values upon which we can stand and unite.


    A Good Will
  • Eloquently expresses the exuberant life.
  • Bestows benefits on both the giver and receiver.
  • Expresses human caring.
  • Is a precious quality of a life well-lived.

    WHY
    The question is raised, "Why?". Because these, as set forth, are the transformational matrix principles of civilized conduct, and in expressing a good will you not only add to the sum of human happiness but do the right thing. Indeed, of all human qualities and possessions, a good will is the most cherished."


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