Ants and bees

We can bitch and moan all we want about all things and how we want to be citizens of the world. We want to end poverty, pollution, war, drug and alcohol abuse, homelessness, depression, loneliness, hate, illiteracy, bullying, corruption, etc. Well, guess what? The world begins in our home and just outside our door. Think of the perfect societies of ants and bees. Every single one doing their job. The Stoics say a life of virtue includes gratitude, generosity, courage, and temperance. Show gratitude by appreciating what you have instead of disappointment at what you don't. Shovel a driveway, open a door, carry some bags for an elderly person and be grateful you can. Show generosity by donating or volunteering at a shelter, or food pantry and be grateful that for most of us losing a few pounds is a personal goal. Recycle every scrap of metal, plastic, and paper you use. Plant some flowers and trees. Turn down the heat a couple of degrees and drive a little slower. Have courage if you are concerned about politics. Always vote and volunteer on a committee, run for office or work for someone who will. Study the issues not emotions. Lead by example in all things with temperance in food, alcohol, dope, attitude, and personal relations. Be an ant or a bee, it is a more rewarding life than being a swine.