Uphold the values you cherish

HISTORY is full of examples of men and women who were little appreciated in their lifetime for their ideas and actions, but were recognised posthumously.

Even scientific progress has been made possible by individuals who challenged prevailing dogmas and conventional ways of thinking to reveal the truth.

Physicist and astronomer Galileo Galilei was accused of heresy and sentenced to house arrest for his view that the Earth revolved around the Sun and not vice versa, while philosopher, mathematician and astronomer Giordano Bruno was burnt at the stake for his beliefs.

Certain principles and values are what keep us human. Their benefits may be intangible at times, but together they form the foundation of a civilised society.

The gradual abandonment of values in the pursuit of unrestrained self-indulgence is now recognised as a contributory factor behind many of the social ills afflicting modern societies.

When we swim against the tide to preserve and uphold values that we cherish and that we know to be right, we save ourselves from going down the drain to decadence.

Heeding our conscience and acting on our best instincts enhance our moral strength and power of judgment.

This enables us to make the right choices in situations that test our character and good sense. A sound character and judgment will keep us on the righteous path and save us from slips and pitfalls.

When we follow the guidance of our inner voice, it brings peace of mind as it averts inner conflict. This will help us to remain stable, light and happy.

Such a state of mind has a positive impact on our thoughts, speech, behaviour and actions.