Yesterday, I underwent a medical procedure at the hospital. (Don't ask... I'll not divulge.) ...And although I felt rationally calm, I still felt a little anxious.

I saw the old habit of self-importance wanting to come up... it's ubiquitous and conventionally acceptable! However, I detest self-pity and -cherishing.

So, to the extent possible, I took a genuine interest in the medical staff, nursing team and my doctors, e.g., by asking their names, how they were doing and making humor. To my surprise, one of the nurses walked into my room and said something to the effect of, We all like you!

Mind you, I was not looking as dashing as I sometimes may... 😊 So, it was truly the friendly vibe I exuded, free from artifice and inordinate preoccupation with myself that they genuinely liked about me.

A most dear and special person was witness to all of this, and surprised me with this card when I regained consciousness. Thank you! 😘

The moral of this account is, by abandoning wrong-doing (i.e, what leads to suffering of self or others) and cultivating goodness (i.e., what brings happiness to others and self), we can all, Make the world a better place.

-Vivekan