“Peace is caring for those who depend on us and trusting those we depend on,” says the Dalai Lama.
The 11th of the 16 Guidelines For Life — loyalty – creates strength and stability in our lives.
VIDEO: Live Happy through Loyalty
Taking responsibility for each other is often the glue that holds our friendships and families together. It’s a lifeline that helps us function well and feel safe and supported through times of change“Loyalty is standing by someone when they are at their weakest and worst, and having faith that their strongest and best will transcend,” says Oakville’s Wendy Perkins who started Home Suite Hope, which provides stable housing and support to the homeless.
Deborah Siegel of Burlington exemplifies loyalty to a cause. She took the idea of helping others by paying it forward. Her organization, Acts of Kindness Network, connects Halton people in need with individuals and resources that can help.
Elizabeth Stronski from Niagara-On-The-Lake says: “I admire people who are loyal to who they are, to their values and to their convictions. Once we have this strength within, we live a much more conscious and happy life because we are at peace with our actions.”
Carmen Orlandis, a Hamilton storyteller, says: “The greater sufferings I have experienced in my life were not caused by illnesses or misfortunes, but by betrayal. I learned loyalty on my father's lap. I tried to honour the sacredness of the word given and also the loyalty offered by my friends.”
Try this: Are you close to someone who is having a difficult time at the moment? Take a few quiet moments to consider their situation and needs. Is there something practical you can do to support them? Are you willing to do it? If not, what is holding you back?Dekyi-Lee Oldershaw, director of The Centre for Compassion and Wisdom in Burlington, is coauthor of 16 Guidelines For Life, available at website centreforcompassionandwisdom.com.
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