From the Editor

Living by the Golden Rule

by Rebecca Taylor, Product Marketing Analyst, Hewlett-Packard Company

As I was reviewing my experiences of the past year, I realized that of all that I learned, one thing resonates most deeply. It's something--a life-truth, if you will--that has unexpectedly impacted every single aspect of my life. I have rediscovered the spirit of the Golden Rule.

"Do unto others . . ." was a common comment from my mother as I was growing up. It's not as if I didn't know what it was or how to apply it to life. But I discovered that I had lost sight of why it's so important!

Let's face it. The last year or so has been rough for members of our chapter, including me. For the first time in my life, I could call myself a cynic. Cultivating the Golden Rule in my own life has restored my optimism. Surrounding myself with supportive people and then providing support for others has reawakened my hope.

How do we as communicators promote the Golden Rule in our everyday lives? What you give, you shall receive: Do your best work for your colleagues, and your colleagues will give you their best work. Share your experiences with others, and they'll share their experiences with you. Remain steadfastly loyal to your colleagues, and they'll be more loyal to you. Always be professional, and those around you will be courteous and professional to you. Help coworkers in a time of need, and they'll be there during your time of need.

The lesson here is that the Golden Rule starts with you. Every seed of hope that you plant, every root of confidence that you help cultivate, every person you support spreads this spirit. I recognize a difference now in how I see the world around me. I can even see the difference in the people around me--now they are spreading the seeds of the Golden Rule and making their world a better place, too.

Are you going to make the choice to be a gardener of the Golden Rule? I truly hope so! You won't regret it!