If a good deed is done, but no one is there to record it, did the good deed actually happen?
“When you’ve done well and another has benefited by it, why like a fool do you look for a third thing on top—credit for the good deed or a favor in return?” ~ Marcus Aurelius
One of my most conflicting perspectives is on social media channels whose videos revolve around good deeds. One part of me is glad there are people out there doing these good deeds and helping others, but the other part of me is bothered by the fact that they record it.
The recording of the good deed feels scummy to me. It feels like the good deed is being done as a way to receive recognition, like “Hey check out this nice thing I did. Give me attention!” I know this is likely not the case for some channels, but for others, I’m not so sure.
I suppose with social media there are going to be people who do nice things solely for likes, but there will also be people who do nice things and use their platform to do more nice things.
It’s all the intention behind the good deed that matters. This is true in general, not just with social media.
If you do a nice thing for someone because you expect something in return, are you really doing a nice thing? Why is it necessary to receive recognition and a pat on the back for being a decent human being?
The act of helping someone else and the feeling in your gut after the fact should be enough reason to do nice things. You can have a huge impact on the lives of others by doing seemingly minor acts. Blessing someone with a little money, a simple compliment, or assistance can impact their life immensely and make you feel incredible.
Be a good person without expectation. Recognition is not necessary for you to help someone.
September 19, 2022
