"It is one of the most beautiful compensations of life, that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson from The Selected Works of Ralph Waldo Emerson
That's gotta be one of the most beautiful thoughts...
Reminds me of a story told by Wayne Dyer in his fantastic book The Power of Intention (Notes available) in which he pretty much captures the science of this truth:
"The positive effect of kindness on the immune system and on the increased production of serotonin in the brain has been proven in research studies. Serotonin is a naturally occurring substance in the body that makes us feel more comfortable, peaceful, and even blissful. In fact, the role of most anti-depressants is to stimulate the production of serotonin chemically, helping to ease depression. Research has shown that a simple act of kindness directed toward another improves the functioning of the immune system and stimulates the production of serotonin in both the recipient of the kindness and the person extending the kindness. Even more amazing is that persons observing the act of kindness have similar beneficial results. Imagine this! Kindness extended, received, or observed beneficially impacts the physical health and feelings of everyone involved!"
Powerful stuff. I say we overdose on kindness today. (Well, we don't need to worry about that overdose, because, as Emerson tells us: "There can be no excess to love, none to knowledge, none to beauty." :))
"A friend may well be reckoned the masterpiece of nature." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson from The Selected Works of Ralph Waldo Emerson
"The glory of friendship is not the outstretched hand, nor the kindly smile nor the joy of companionship; it is the spiritual inspiration that comes to one when he discovers that someone else believes in him and is willing to trust him." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson from The Selected Works of Ralph Waldo Emerson
More Mojo from The Selected Writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson
How to create the greatest year of your life: Get inspired by the Big Ideas from The Selected Writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson (+ 99 (!) other great books) conveniently packaged in a 6-page PDF + a ~20-minute MP3. All for 49 bucks. Sweet deal, eh? Sign up now and get your wisdom on!
|
PhilosophersNotes on The Selected Writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson by Ralph Waldo Emerson | |||||
send
print
| << Marcus Aurelius : Soak Your Mind | Menu | Martin Seligman : The Three P’s >> |
