May I be no man’s enemy,
and may I be the friend of that
which is eternal and abides.
May I never quarrel with those nearest me:
and if I do, may I be reconciled quickly.
May I love, seek, and attain only that which is good.
May I wish for all men’s happiness and envy none.
May I never rejoice in the ill-fortune
of one who has wronged me.
When I have done or said what is wrong,
may I never wait for the rebuke of others,
but always rebuke myself until I make amends.
May I win no victory that harms either me or my opponent.
May I reconcile friends who are angry with one another.
May I never fail a friend who is in danger.
When visiting those in grief
may I be able
by gentle and healing words
to soften their pain.
May I respect myself.
May I always keep tame that which rages within me.
May I accustom myself to be gentle,
and never be angry with people because of circumstances.
May I never discuss who is wicked
and what wicked things he has done,
but know good men and follow in their footsteps.
April 5, 2019 is International Golden Rule Day. This prayer was written by Eusebius of Caesarea, 4th Century Bishop and Ecclesiastical Historian.
