“Happiness and moral duty are inseparably connected.”

“Happiness and moral duty are inseparably connected.”

George Washington, First President of the United States

Image from Unsplash by Library of Congress

George Washington believed that moral duty was intrinsically linked to human happiness.

He emphasized that promoting happiness requires the practice of moral duty, suggesting that virtue and ethical conduct are essential for individual and societal well-being.

Washington also stressed the importance of private morality, asserting that it is foundational to public policy and the nation’s direction.

His views reflect a belief in immutable moral principles, which he saw as critical for the prosperity and stability of the republic.

EXERCISE:

What are your views about the correlation between happiness and moral duty? Consider discussing your perspective with others within your communities to help foster a happier and more virtuous world.

#83: “The most important human endeavor is the striving for morality in our actions…”

“…Our inner balance, and even our very existence, depends on it. Only morality in our actions can give beauty and dignity to our lives.”

– Albert Einstein, theoretical physicist

Watching the Olympic Games over the past couple of weeks has been a highlight of my summer. Beyond the gold medals and extraordinary human achievement, we all got to see some special human moments of great beauty and dignity.

Did you see them too?

  • Athletes showing tears of joy in respect and honor of their country’s national anthem
  • Athletes thanking a higher power for their gifts and achievements
  • Athletes honoring their team-mates and competitors
  • The world coming together in peace to celebrate the human spirit

Exercise:

How can you bring your highest moral values and actions to each day and to those people around you, to experience greater beauty, balance and dignity in your life?

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