As a young village boy growing up, the rhythm of life was simple, yet profound. Every day, we journeyed to the farm, a path that wound through the familiar sights and sounds of our community. One thing I noticed during these daily trips was how often we encountered the same people on our way to the farm and then again on our way back home. This routine observation taught me a lesson that has stayed with me throughout my life: how we treat people on our way “to the farm” often determines how we will part ways with them when we meet again on our journey “back home.”
Moral Lessons
- The Principle of Reciprocity
In life, the way we treat others often comes back to us in the same measure, even more. My village friends I met in the morning were the same I encountered in the evening, and our interactions were shaped by how we related earlier in the day. This mirrors the principle of reciprocity in human relationships. If we are kind, respectful, and considerate, we are likely to receive the same in return. On the other hand, if we are harsh or dismissive, we might face similar attitudes. Reciprocity is not just a social norm but also a moral expectation in many cultures. People generally feel an obligation to return favours or kindness, and failing to do so can be seen as socially or morally wrong. This expectation helps maintain balance and harmony within communities. Reciprocity can be seen in various forms in our everyday life. For example, in business, customer loyalty programmes are based on reciprocity, rewarding customers for their continued patronage. In personal relationships, acts of kindness and support are often reciprocated, strengthening bonds between individuals.
- The Importance of Consistency
Life is a journey with many encounters, and consistency in our character and behaviour is crucial. The consistency with which we interact with others helps build trust and reliability in our relationships. In the village, the way we greeted or conversed with people in the morning was a reflection of our character that set the tone for our evening interactions. In a broader sense, this consistency builds the fabric of our relationships, whether in family, community, or workplace settings.
- The Impact of First Impressions
First impressions often have a lasting impact. How we present ourselves and interact with others during initial encounters can shape the nature of future interactions. The villagers’ first greetings in the morning often influenced the mood and tone of the conversations we had on our way back. This highlights the importance of making a positive first impression, not just to create a favourable outcome but to establish a foundation of mutual respect and understanding.
Theological Lessons
- Sowing and Reaping
The observation from the village reflects the biblical principle of sowing and reaping. Galatians 6:7 reminds us, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” Our actions, words, and attitudes are seeds that we plant in our daily interactions. The harvest we receive is directly related to what we have sown. If we sow seeds of kindness, love, and patience, we will reap the same. However, if we sow discord, anger, or bitterness, we should not be surprised when these negative elements return to us.
- The Golden Rule
The Golden Rule, found in Matthew 7:12, states, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.” The village experience illustrates this rule in action. Treating others with respect and kindness on our journey to the farm often ensured that we were treated similarly on our way back. This rule is a cornerstone of Christian ethics, encouraging us to live in harmony with others by considering their feelings and perspectives.
- The Journey of Life and Eternal Perspective
The daily journey to and from the farm can be seen as a metaphor for the broader journey of life. We are all on a journey, moving from one stage to the next, meeting people along the way. How we treat others on this journey reflects our understanding of life’s purpose and our ultimate destination. Biblical teachings encourage us to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that our actions have consequences not just in this life, but in the life to come. The relationships we build and the way we treat others are part of our preparation for eternity.
Conclusion
The simple, everyday observations from my village life offer profound moral and theological lessons. How we interact with others on our life’s journey has a significant impact on the quality of our relationships and the fulfillment of our spiritual calling. By embracing the principles of reciprocity, consistency, and the Golden Rule, we can navigate our journey with grace and integrity, ensuring that when we meet people “on our way back,” we part ways with mutual respect and peace. These lessons remind us that life’s journey is not just about reaching a destination, but about how we walk the path and who we become along the way.
By Pastor Fred Amoakohene Sarpong (Lecturer, Pentecost University/Resident Minister, PMKY Worship Centre, Kasoa Area)
