Back online after moving into my lovely new apartment
Moving time! As a college student, moving has been a hallmark of my time at Tufts University. A few days ago I moved across campus, which is only half a mile as evident in the map below.
But even after relocating such a short distance, the patterns of my life have completely changed. Different convenience and liquor stores and new restaurants from which to grab a bite to eat. Right now I am currently in the Hillsides region of Medford, Massachusetts and I must say that my initial impression of my new neighbors has been great.
I haven’t been able to post anything of use lately because getting internet access has been somewhat of a problem. I’ve only ever had to deal with two internet service providers (ISPs) and my experience has been hell. The tenant who just moved out of my current apartment still has service here and until he cancels it (even though he doesn’t live here), I can’t obtain internet access for myself. This is a reasonable policy but its bad form on the part of the former tenant. Luckily, some very kind people downstairs have given me access to their wireless network so I can do homework, “work” work, and post on this blog (among other things). They were very willing to allow me to use their wireless network because they had the same experience, but I like to think they were just being generous people (which I’m sure they are).
I have a tattoo on my arm that basically means “punishment comes limping.” In essence, what goes around comes around. Good things come around too when you take initiative. If there is one characteristic I dislike most about people is selfishness. Of course selfishness may at times be the better option, but in terms of neighborly interactions, this course leaves you the odd man or woman out on the block. In Indian religions, this concept is known as karma. I don’t really like nor believe in any of the religious/supernatural/spiritual aspects of karma. Its essence though forms the basis for practical human interaction.
I challenge whoever reads my blog to try doing something kind for someone else in the next few days despite it costing you time or money. Don’t think of any reward in the future or expect a reciprocating action, just help someone out because they need it. While it’s obvious that the world would be a better place if everyone was a little generous now and then and perhaps my dear reader is under the impression that I am spitting lofty, idealistic words but this is indeed practical advice if you narrow in on those people directly surrounding you. Start at the local level and be a good, helpful neighbor. Assist the dudes lugging a couch up a narrow flight of stairs or help someone pay for the bus ride home. World peace may not result, but I bet that the genorisity towards others relative of your financial state will benefit your emotional well-being as well as someone else’s. Repeated acts of kindness enable one’s self to develop as reputation, which I gauruntee will serve you well. But just remember, selfish people hurt themselves. A seflish reputation is repulsive and so when that grumpy person who likes to only consider their own needs is in need of assistance at some furture moment, they may not get it. And so, punishment does indeed come limping.
Did you enjoy this post? Why not leave a comment below and continue the conversation, or subscribe to my feed and get articles like this delivered automatically to your feed reader.
Comments
No comments yet.
Leave a comment