When someone keeps their promise on time, delivers their work punctually and diligently, asks for a fair and reasonable payment, and is polite, kind, or helpful—we are surprised. But when we encounter incompetence, irresponsibility, disregard for customers, or cunning tricks—we accept it as normal.
Recently, some friends from Germany enthusiastically told me about their former boss—a decent, honorable man. They spoke about him as if he were an extraordinary phenomenon, something rare, exceptional, and almost unbelievable. And as I listened, I kept wondering: what has happened to people? Why do we consider widespread rudeness, indifference, and dishonesty as the norm, while simple kindness, integrity, and reliability are treated as anomalies? We are more likely to think of a stranger smiling at us on the street as a fool than to be disturbed by someone else’s nasty behavior. And yet, deep down, we neither want nor accept this reality.
So maybe it’s time to say no to this trend, to start reacting and nurturing what is good. In the store, on the street—smile at people for no reason. One or two may pass by indifferently, but the next will return the smile, and suddenly, the world will feel a little warmer.
Christmas is coming—a perfect time to practice. I wish you success.
(World is a Pharmacy No. 22/23 – December 2010/January 2011)