Bill of Responsibilities
Everyone talks about their rights, vociferously opposing any infringment. The Bill of Rights is appropriately a part of the US Constitution. This bill is quoted by many when they feel someone is stopping them from something they want to do.
I feel however, that what is needed is a Bill of Responsibilities.
This list is merely an "in progress start" of such a Bill.
I feel however, that what is needed is a Bill of Responsibilities.
This list is merely an "in progress start" of such a Bill.
1. If you believe in God, you must love the Lord your God with all your mind, heart and strength.
Freedom of Religion means that you have a right to believe in God or not and that if you believe anything about God that you please. But if you believe in the Christian or Jewish God, you have the responsibility to love and follow Him fully.
2. Love your neighbor as yourself.
This is a statement of the Golden Rule, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." It is found stated a number of different ways, any many religions and philosophical ethical systems. I prefer the "love your neighbor" formulation.
3. Produce more than you consume.
If you don't feed yourself, someone else will have to. This statement is to be understood in the context that no one has responsibility for the form or magnitude of their particular gifts and abilities. Nor can they control the circumstances under which they were born. These are valid constraints, however, they do not constrain the effort to produce more than you consume, merely the potential results. If someone is on government assistance and can find no work they should be involved in some activity that benefits others. I am not picky about what you do as long as it helps others. Looking for a job qualifies as benefiting others.
4. Don't have more children than you can feed.
See number 3 above.
5. Share what you have.
See number 2 above.
6. Consume modestly, regardless of the amount you produce.
7. When exercising your rights, exercise them in a manner that inconveniences others as little as possible.
For example, when crossing the street at a cross walk a pedestrian absolutely has the right of way. When exercising that right, the pedestrian should cross quickly, within the bounds of safety of course, so that the cars do not have to wait unnecessarily.