Confucius, who presented himself as a “transmitter who invented nothing,” left an indelible mark in the mind of man some 2,500 years ago. His teachings were compiled by his disciples after his death into a book called the “Analects of Confucius” and the philosophy or what some call the religion of Confucionism is based on Confucius’ desire to restore the “Mandate of Heaven,” to bring peace and prosperity to the people.
I enjoyed a riding lesson today from a dear and relatively new friend who embodies the word sincerity. She taught from her experience, but what stood out to me most was her generosity, sincerity and earnestness in all she presented. As I was practicing my walk, trot and canter transitions the thought crossed my mind that where there is sincerity and earnestness there tends also to be a measure of selflessness. That selflessness, in turn, opens the door to positive and joyful experiences that in turn become fond memories.
Anthony Robbins, the motivational speaker, once said that “Only those who have learned the power of sincere and selfless contribution experience life’s deepest joy: true fulfillment.” To know fulfillment you must be a giver and not a taker. Don’t hold back; make a positive contribution even if you don’t feel fully prepared or in the mood.
Take the time today to let go of self-concern, to suspend your wants and fears long enough that the wellspring of fulfillment and joy begins to flow in and through you. No matter what your background, race, creed or color, you can practice the “five things” as they will help you navigate even the trickiest of circumstances.
Gregory Hake 
Nice post Gregg, a refreshing read. I’ve actually read the book, ‘Confucius from the Heart’ by Yu Dan, and this post summarises those main points very well. Simple lessons everyone should take on board : )
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This is definetly one of the things that should become a habit in a person’s life. Thankfully, it is an easy thing to become habitual at doing because the results feel great! Although there may be some inertia to overcome and it may take time before this result is seen, I think that being selfless ties in nicely with what Sir Ken Robinson said in his TED talk. With selfless giving, I think every person can find something that “speaks to their most authentic self”. Thanks!
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Making a positive contribution is the best thing you can do when you DON’T feel in the mood for it. It’s a law of physics that automatically changes your disposition and keeps things moving in the right direction.
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One of my favorite sayings. Thanks for expounding on it!
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Beautiful post today. Fulfillment is that seemingly elusive end that all endeavors, plans, schemes and experiences will hopefully lead to.
How ironic that it simply requires sincerity and selfless contribution. You can give that to anyone and under any circumstances. It would seem it should be natural to all of us.
The five virtues gravity, generosity of soul, sincerity, earnestness, and kindness, practiced under any circumstance would change our world completely. I’m just day dreaming about what our world would look like if these were our law, habit and inheritance.
A few ideas to start your day dream…no war, no justice system, no reality shows!!!
Thanks Gregg, your contribution is so appreciated.
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