June 22, 2018

The Right Thing

I'm a stickler for doing the right thing. I'm the kid who pointed out the teacher's marking error...even when it wasn't in my favor. I'm the kid who told my mom when I broke the rules. I'm the woman who stands up for what's right...even at the expense of my health and financial well-being. Why? Because it's the right thing to do.

My husband and I are watching New Girl on Netflix. We are a couple episodes shy of completing season 5 so if you aren't there yet...

<<spoiler alert>>

On the episode we watched last night ("Return to Sender"), Jess is faced with a dilemma when she meets her boyfriend's female best friend from med school. Jess discovers Diane has been in love with Sam for years and even told him in a letter that recently returned to her unopened. Diane gives Jess the letter because she can't destroy it and, now that she's met Jess, she can't give it to Sam either. Does Jess stay silent and keep the man she loves or stand aside and let him decide? In the end, Jess gives Sam the letter. She wouldn't have been able to live with herself if she'd kept the letter from him. His happiness is important to her. The audience understands the selfless motivation behind Jess' decision, but watches as Jess comes to terms with the inevitable reality of losing Sam.

Sometimes (most times), the right thing to do is not the easy thing to do.

This episode struck a chord with me because, had I been in Jess' shoes, I would've made the same choice. I often choose to do the right thing even when the alternative is easier or more beneficial. I have a strong moral compass. And, I believe in karma. Reward or benefit may not be immediate or ever materialize, but, at the end of the day, I can live with myself. The alternative? If you can't live with yourself, then it's pretty hard to escape.

Everyday, we are given choices. Choose carefully. Karma is watching.


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