Brigham Young: 'We should never permit ourselves to do anything that we are not willing to see our children do.'

We should never permit ourselves to do anything that we are not willing to see our children do.

Brigham Young, an influential leader in the early years of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, once said, 'We should never permit ourselves to do anything that we are not willing to see our children do.' This quote encapsulates a fundamental principle of responsible and ethical behavior. It emphasizes the importance of setting a positive example for our children and being mindful of the impact our actions can have on their development and future choices. Young's words call upon individuals to consider the potential consequences of their decisions and to lead lives guided by integrity and virtue.While the straightforward interpretation of this quote is thought-provoking in itself, introducing an unexpected philosophical concept can add an additional layer of interest and depth to our understanding. Let us explore the concept of intergenerational karma, which suggests that our actions reverberate not only through our own lives but also through the lives of our descendants.Imagine a world where the repercussions of our choices and behaviors extend far beyond our own time on Earth. In this realm, every action, every decision, and every thought leaves an indelible mark on the lives of our children, grandchildren, and generations to come. This is the premise of intergenerational karma – the belief that the consequences of our actions extend through time, shaping the experiences of future generations.When viewed through the lens of intergenerational karma, Brigham Young's quote takes on even greater significance. It highlights the importance of considering not only our immediate desires and interests but also the long-term implications for our children and their ability to lead lives of meaning and fulfillment. It invites us to think deeply about the legacy we are leaving behind, both in terms of tangible assets and intangible qualities such as values, ethics, and character.In a world governed by intergenerational karma, the choices we make today have the potential to shape the lives of our children in profound and lasting ways. If we engage in behaviors that we would not want our children to emulate, we risk perpetuating a cycle of negativity that can reverberate through the generations. Conversely, if we strive to embody the values and qualities we wish for our children to adopt, we can create a legacy of love, compassion, and integrity that extends far beyond our own lifetime.Consider a parent who indulges in unhealthy habits, such as excessive drinking or smoking, despite being aware of the potential health risks. By engaging in these behaviors, they not only jeopardize their own well-being but also set a precedent for their children. The children may grow up viewing these habits as normal or acceptable, leading them down a path fraught with similar challenges and health issues. Conversely, a parent who prioritizes self-care, engages in healthy habits, and models positive coping mechanisms can inspire their children to do the same, fostering a cycle of well-being and resilience.This concept of intergenerational karma suggests that the choices we make today ripple through time and influence the opportunities and challenges our descendants will encounter. It challenges us to think beyond our immediate desires and consider the long-term impact of our actions.Brigham Young's quote serves as an important reminder of our responsibility as caretakers not only for our children but also for the well-being and growth of future generations. By setting a positive example, we create a blueprint for our children to follow, paving the way for a brighter and more virtuous future.In conclusion, Brigham Young's words resonate with the profound truth that we should never permit ourselves to do anything that we are not willing to see our children do. This quote captures the essence of responsible and ethical behavior, urging us to consider the implications of our choices on the lives of our children and future descendants. Furthermore, when viewed through the lens of intergenerational karma, the quote takes on renewed significance, emphasizing the long-term impact of our actions. By being mindful of the legacy we are leaving behind and taking steps to embody the values we wish to see in future generations, we can set the stage for a more virtuous and prosperous world. Let us heed Brigham Young's wise words and strive to be the catalysts for positive change, not only in our own lives but also in the lives of those who will follow in our footsteps.