Good Values

Sharing great values that connect people

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About me

Welcome to Berthe A. warm world 😀

Hi there! I’m someone who believes that kindness, integrity, and empathy still matter—and I write to celebrate the good values that hold our society together.

By profession, I work in the world of transport and logistics, where things move fast and every detail counts. But beyond the busy schedules and moving parts, I’ve always found time for what fuels me: reading, writing, travelling, and soaking in the beauty of everyday life.

People often say I smile a lot—and I think that’s one of the best compliments anyone can give. Through this blog, I hope to pass on some of that positivity, share reflections on the values that make life meaningful, and maybe even spark a few smiles along the way.

Thanks for being here. Let’s journey together.

  • The Ripple effect of Helpfulness

    In every thriving society, certain values act as invisible threads, holding people together and guiding behavior. Among these, helpfulness often goes unnoticed—quiet, humble, and yet essential. This blog explores why helpfulness should be seen not just as a personal virtue, but as a foundational societal value

    At first glance, helping others might seem like a one-way street. You give your time, your effort, your knowledge, or your resources to someone else. But look a little deeper, and the real magic starts to show. Being helpful doesn’t just make someone else’s day better; it shapes your character, builds your network, and even boosts your own sense of purpose.

    Being helpful isn’t always loud

    You don’t need to have all the answers or make grand gestures to be helpful. Sometimes, being helpful looks like listening when someone needs to vent, share knowledge generously without expecting something in return, offering a ride to a friend who’s stranded, or noticing that a colleague is overwhelmed and stepping in with a small assist. It’s about being tuned in—present enough to notice and kind enough to care.

    Why does it matter ?

    When you help someone, you’re not just solving a problem. You’re telling them: You matter. I see you. In an age where so many people feel invisible or disconnected, that’s huge. Being helpful creates trust. It builds relationships. And it reminds us that we’re not alone in whatever we’re going through.

    Being helpful also helps you !

    Helping others has a quiet way of helping you too. It brings a sense of purpose. It lifts your mood. It reconnects you to your values. Acts of kindness and support are scientifically proven to release feel-good chemicals like dopamine and oxytocin. It creates a positive feedback loop: the more you help, the better you feel—and the more you’re inspired to do it again.

    Being helpful creates a Ripple Effect

    When you’re helpful, others take notice and it inspires them to do the same. One generous act can spark a chain of positivity that spreads far beyond your original interaction. You never know how far that ripple will reach or whose life you might quietly improve along the way.

    It’s not About being perfect

    You don’t have to get it right all the time. Sometimes you’ll misstep. Sometimes you’ll offer help when it’s not needed—or not offer it when it is. That’s okay. Being helpful isn’t about being flawless. It’s about showing up with a good heart and trying.

    Start small, stay consistent

    You don’t need to wait for a big moment to be helpful. Smile at a stranger. Hold the door open. Ask your friend how they really are—and mean it. Those tiny moments add up. Over time, they become a way of life.

    In a world where you can be anything, being helpful might not always be the flashiest choice. But it’s one of the most powerful. And maybe—just maybe—that’s what we need more of.

    A Legacy Worth Leaving

    Being helpful may not always come with instant rewards or applause. But, at the end of the day, people may forget your job title or how many followers you had. But they will remember how you made them feel. They will remember if you showed up when they needed you, if you lent a hand, if you helped carry something heavy—whether physical or emotional.

    So, the next time you’re wondering if lending a hand is worth the effort—remember this: helpfulness has outcomes, not just for others, but for you too.

  • The Power of Gratitude

    In a world that often feels fast and uncertain, being grateful has a remarkable power. It keeps us grounded, opens our hearts, and helps us find joy even in tough times. Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you.” It’s a deep, thoughtful recognition of the good in our lives. People have celebrated gratitude in different religions, discussed it in books, and it is increasingly seen as essential for a healthy society.

      1. Gratitude in Religion: A Sacred Practice

      Most major world religions see gratitude not only as a good quality but as something spiritually important.

      In Christianity, Gratitude is a major theme in both the Old and New Testaments.

      Gratitude is seen as a response to God’s grace and blessings. Throughtout the Bible, Jesus gave thanks often—before meals, before miracles.

      “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18

      Islam teaches shukr — thankfulness — as a way to acknowledge God’s constant mercy and presence. The Quran frequently reminds believers to be grateful: “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]” (Quran 14:7/ Surat ‘Ibrāhīm). Here, gratitude becomes not just a feeling, but an active state of worship and mindfulness.

      Gratitude is deeply embedded in Jewish daily life and prayers.

      • The word “Jew” (Yehudi) comes from Yehudah, meaning “to give thanks.”
      • Every morning, Jews say the Modeh Ani prayer: “I thank You, living and eternal King…”
      • Many psalms are centered around thankfulness, especially King David’s writings.

      Gratitude in Hinduism is tied to recognizing the divine presence in all things.

      It’s expressed through puja (rituals), offerings, and devotion. Acknowledging what one has, and showing appreciation for nature, family, and the divine are key values. Scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita encourage thankfulness as a form of humility and self-realization.

      2. Gratitude in Literature: The Human Heart Revealed

      Literature, too, is rich with explorations of gratitude — often expressed in the quiet moments between characters, in reflections of hardship turned into wisdom, or in the humble acceptance of life’s gifts.

      Victor Frankl, in his memoir Man’s Search for Meaning, writes from the depths of a concentration camp, yet still finds gratitude in the smallest signs of humanity — a sunset, a memory, a shared crust of bread. He shows that gratitude is not dependent on circumstance, but on perspective.

      In modern literature, authors like Maya Angelou and Mary Oliver consistently infuse their work with gratitude — for nature, for resilience, for love — painting it not as naive optimism but as a radical act of attention.

      3. Gratitude in Society: A Social Glue

      Gratitude doesn’t only enrich individual lives — it strengthens communities. In a society driven by transaction and achievement, pausing to appreciate others fosters empathy, trust, and connection.

      Studies in positive psychology show that grateful people are not only happier, but also more generous and resilient. Workplace cultures that promote appreciation tend to see greater collaboration and less burnout. In schools, children who practice gratitude are more empathetic and better able to handle challenges.

      Gratitude has also become a cultural movement in response to the stress and materialism of modern life. From gratitude journals to social media challenges, people are discovering that saying “thank you” is not a small act — it’s a transformative one.

      4. Gratitude as a Way of Being

      Whether expressed in prayer, in prose, or in a simple gesture, gratitude invites us to live more fully. It helps us to remember what truly matters — not just what we have, but who we are and how we are connected.

      So perhaps the invitation is this: to make gratitude not just a moment, but a mindset. To let it shape our prayers, our stories, our interactions. To see, even on the most ordinary of days, that life — with all its flaws and fragility — is worth thanking.

      And you, what do you think about gratitude?

    1. Respect as one of the most fundamental values in society

      Respect is one of the most fundamental values that underpins healthy relationships, effective communities, and a functioning society. Its importance can be seen from various perspectives—social, psychological, ethical, and even spiritual. Here’s why respect is so crucial:

      1. Social Harmony and Cooperation

      Respect is the cornerstone of any cooperative society. Without respect, trust erodes, and social cohesion breaks down. When individuals respect one another, it facilitates positive interactions, collaboration, and mutual understanding. It fosters an environment where people feel valued, listened to, and understood, making it easier to work together for common goals. Whether it’s in the family, workplace, or broader society, respect enables smoother communication and reduces the likelihood of conflict.

      2. Psychological Well-Being

      Being treated with respect is a fundamental human need. When people feel respected, they experience a sense of worth and dignity. On the contrary, when respect is absent, individuals can feel belittled, invisible, or even oppressed. This lack of respect can lead to feelings of alienation, anxiety, or depression. Respect helps build self-esteem and self-confidence, essential components of psychological health.

      3. Ethical Responsibility

      Respect is inherently linked to ethics. It’s the foundation of concepts like fairness, equality, and justice. When we respect others, we acknowledge their rights, their autonomy, and their inherent dignity. This respect extends beyond individuals to entire communities, cultures, and even nature. It’s about recognizing that all human beings, regardless of differences in opinion, background, or status, deserve to be treated with decency and regard. At a broader level, a society built on respect is one where discrimination, exploitation, and injustice are less likely to flourish.

      4. Encouraging Positive Change and Growth

      Respect is not about agreeing with everyone or everything, but it’s about acknowledging differing views and practices without judgment. This openness to diversity is crucial in personal and collective growth. When respect is maintained, individuals and communities can engage in healthy debate, learn from one another, and adapt to changing circumstances. It’s essential for fostering creativity, innovation, and progress. In an environment where respect is absent, people are less likely to speak up, share ideas, or challenge the status quo, which stifles growth and improvement.

      5. Spiritual Significance

      In many religious and philosophical traditions, respect is seen as a divine or cosmic principle. Whether it’s the respect for creation in many forms of spirituality or the respect for fellow human beings as reflections of the divine, respect often carries a higher, transcendent meaning. Treating others with respect is seen not only as an ethical obligation but also as a path to spiritual fulfilment. For example, in Buddhism, respect is part of the practice of mindfulness and compassion, while in Christianity, the Golden Rule encourages believers to treat others as they would like to be treated.

      6. Conflict Prevention and Resolution

      Respect is a key ingredient in conflict resolution. When we respect someone, we value their perspective and are more likely to approach disagreements with openness and empathy. Respect doesn’t mean avoiding conflict, but it does mean engaging with others in a way that prioritizes understanding and cooperation over dominance or dismissal. When people feel respected in a disagreement, they are more likely to be receptive to finding common ground or compromise.

      7. Fostering Healthy Relationships

      In any kind of relationship—be it romantic, familial, or professional—respect is essential. It builds trust, emotional security, and a sense of safety. Without respect, relationships become toxic, manipulative, or superficial. Respect in relationships means honouring boundaries, appreciating differences, and showing care for the other person’s needs and desires. It’s a dynamic that ensures both individuals can grow and thrive in the relationship.

      8. Leadership and Influence

      Respect is a vital characteristic of effective leadership. Leaders who respect others inspire loyalty, trust, and motivation. They recognize the value of every team member, listen to their concerns, and treat them with dignity. Leaders who show respect are often more approachable and better able to foster an environment of inclusivity and collaboration. A lack of respect, on the other hand, can result in resentment, disengagement, and a toxic atmosphere.

      To conclude, respect is more than just a polite gesture or social convention; it’s a foundational value that nurtures human dignity, societal harmony, personal growth, and ethical living. It’s essential for the functioning of any community, whether that’s a family, workplace, nation, or global society. When respect is upheld, people feel valued, heard, and connected—both to each other and to the broader world around them. Ultimately, respect is the glue that holds relationships and societies together, allowing them to flourish.

      Do you also see respect as one of the most fundamental values in society?

    2. Respect as a cultural and religious value?

      Respect, from both religious and cultural perspectives, holds profound significance, often serving as a foundational value that binds societies and spiritual communities together. However, its interpretation and application can vary significantly depending on the context, leading to both shared ideals and potential points of tension.

      Religious Perspective

      Many of the world’s major religions emphasize respect as a virtue integral to ethical living. For example, in Christianity, respect is often framed as love and kindness toward others, with Jesus’ commandment to “love thy neighbour as thyself” serving as a guiding principle. Similarly, in Islam, respect is encapsulated in the concept of adab—proper etiquette and respectful conduct—especially toward elders, family, and authority. The Quran and Hadith highlight that respect for others is an act of piety and a way to demonstrate reverence for God’s creation.

      In Buddhism, respect is expressed through mindfulness and compassion, where individuals are encouraged to cultivate deep reverence for all living beings, which reflects the interconnectedness of life. Hinduism emphasizes ahimsa (non-violence) as a form of respect, where harm to others—whether physical, emotional, or mental—is seen as a violation of sacred duty.

      Despite these common threads, different religious traditions sometimes highlight specific groups for special respect. For example, many religious systems prioritize respect for elders, parents, and teachers, viewing them as holders of wisdom or as direct conduits to divine teachings. However, this focus can sometimes translate into rigid hierarchical structures, where respect must be given to authority figures regardless of their behaviour or actions, creating tensions when the respect owed to individuals conflicts with principles of justice or ethical behaviour.

      Cultural Perspective

      Respect in various cultures also serves as a social adhesive, guiding behaviour and relationships within families, communities, and even nations. In many Asian cultures, such as Japan and Korea, respect is deeply ingrained in the social fabric, with rituals of deference playing a key role in interpersonal communication. The use of honorifics, bowing, or the practice of addressing elders with high levels of formality signifies respect and reinforces social harmony.

      However, in Western societies, particularly in more individualistic cultures like the United States or parts of Europe, respect tends to emphasize equality, personal autonomy, and mutual recognition. Here, respect is more likely to be viewed as a right inherent to all individuals, irrespective of age, social status, or position. This often manifests in more egalitarian norms where the emphasis is on treating others with dignity and fairness, regardless of their hierarchical position.

      One critical thought, however, is that the cultural approach to respect can be deeply influenced by power dynamics and historical contexts. In many societies, what is considered “respectful” behaviour can be reflective of underlying social hierarchies or historical inequalities. For example, practices of respecting authority or elders may also perpetuate social structures that limit the agency or autonomy of marginalized groups, such as women, youth, or lower-caste individuals. This creates a tension between respect as a social ideal and the potential for respect to become a tool of oppression or control.

      Conclusion

      Respect, viewed through both religious and cultural lenses, is essential to fostering harmonious relationships and ethical living. However, it must also be critically examined, especially when rigid interpretations of respect can reinforce social inequalities or inhibit justice. True respect, therefore, should be dynamic—acknowledging the inherent dignity of every person while promoting fairness, accountability, and the dismantling of harmful hierarchical structures that can undermine human flourishing.

      And you, what do you think about respect?

    3. Integrity as a crucial value

      Integrity as a crucial value

      Integrity is an essential value that shapes how we interact with others and how we live our lives. It refers to the quality of being honest, having strong moral principles, and being consistent in actions, values, and beliefs. For Christians, integrity is not just a personal quality but also a reflection of one’s relationship with God. The Bible offers many lessons about the importance of integrity, and many influential writers throughout history have echoed these sentiments.

      In the Bible, integrity is seen as a virtue that is pleasing to God. Proverbs 10:9 tells us, “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.” This verse highlights the safety and stability that come with living an honest life. Integrity gives us the courage to face challenges without fear of being exposed, because our actions align with our words.

      King David, a figure widely known in biblical history, exemplified integrity despite his flaws. In Psalm 25:21, he prays, “May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope, Lord, is in you.” David understood that living with integrity meant trusting God to guide his actions and decisions, even when faced with difficult circumstances. His life shows that integrity is not about being perfect, but about striving to live honorably in the eyes of God.

      Another important passage is from Titus 2:7, which says, “In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness.” Here, the Apostle Paul urges believers to live as role models, showing integrity in every aspect of life. Whether at work, school, or in relationships, maintaining a character of honesty and moral uprightness should be a priority.

      Throughout history, many writers have emphasized the importance of integrity. One notable figure is C.S. Lewis, a Christian author who often discussed the significance of personal virtue in his writings. In his book Mere Christianity, Lewis writes, “Integrity is doing the right thing even when no one is watching.” This powerful idea reminds us that integrity is not about seeking praise or recognition but about doing what is right because it is right.

      Another writer who spoke on integrity is Ralph Waldo Emerson, an American philosopher and poet. He once said, “The integrity of your own mind is the one thing that you can never sell.” Emerson believed that maintaining personal integrity was a sign of true independence and strength. In a world full of temptations and external pressures, it is easy to compromise one’s values. However, Emerson encourages us to protect our inner moral compass at all costs.

      In modern literature, integrity is often explored as a key component of personal growth. In To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee illustrates the importance of integrity through the character of Atticus Finch, a lawyer who defends an innocent man in a deeply prejudiced town. Despite facing criticism and hostility, Atticus stands firm in his belief in justice and truth. His actions teach us that integrity sometimes requires standing alone in the face of adversity.

      In both the Bible and the writings of influential thinkers, integrity stands as a foundational value for living a meaningful and honorable life. It is not just about following rules but about aligning our actions with our values and beliefs. Integrity helps us navigate life with confidence, knowing that we are being true to ourselves and to God. As we strive to cultivate integrity in our own lives, let us be inspired by the timeless wisdom found in scripture and the words of great writers, seeking to live with honesty, consistency, and moral courage every day.