Life has a curious way of revealing its mysteries. Sometimes, we tend to withhold certain things from others, assuming that by doing so, we can retain our exclusivity to enjoy those benefits. However, this kind of thinking can backfire, and those very same people could end up causing us to lose those benefits altogether. Let me share a story that illustrates this:
A newspaper reporter once interviewed a farmer who had won awards for growing the best corn every year at the state fair. The reporter was intrigued to learn that the farmer shared his seed corn with his neighbors. Perplexed, the reporter asked, “How can you afford to share your best seed corn with your neighbors when they are competing with you every year?” The farmer smiled knowingly and explained, “The wind picks up pollen from the ripening corn and swirls it from field to field. If my neighbors grow inferior corn, cross-pollination will steadily degrade the quality of my corn. If I am to grow good corn, I must help my neighbors grow good corn.”
This story holds an important lesson for all of us. Those who want to live meaningful and fulfilling lives must help enrich the lives of others. Our lives are measured by the impact we make on others, and those who choose to be happy must help others find happiness because the welfare of each is bound up with the welfare of all. This principle can be referred to as the power of collectivity or the law of life.
It is essential to remember that none of us truly wins until we all win. When we help those around us to become better, we become the best version of ourselves. Real happiness comes from helping others, and it is the only way to achieve a sense of fulfillment that lasts. So, let us remember to share our knowledge, our resources, and our love with those around us, for in doing so, we can create a world where everyone can thrive.
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