When we perceive that the good fortune of others is unfair to us

When we perceive that the good fortune of others is unfair to us

It is easy to fall into the trap of greed and envy when we measure our lives against the good fortune of others. If a neighbor wins the lottery or inherits a small fortune, we may think life has treated us unfairly by comparison. But true fairness is not determined by random blessings of luck. What matters most is whether we live virtuously and do decent work that allows us to thrive.

Focusing on virtuous living is the key to fairness. We must strive each day to act with integrity, compassion, and wisdom—to be fair and just in our dealings with others. The size of our bank account or material possessions does not determine the richness of our inner lives. If we cultivate strong principles and engage in meaningful labor, we will flourish. The good fortune of others is not unfairness to us. Rather, measuring ourselves by our own virtues and meaningful work allows us to escape the pitfalls of greed and envy and achieve lasting fulfillment. In the end, living virtuously is the only true measure of fairness.

Matthew 20:1-16. ‘These last ones worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us, who bore the day’s burden and the heat.’

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-235: AUGUST 23, 2023]