Questioning the Nature of Good and Evil
When I was in high school, I asked this question at a conference: “In order to appreciate good, shouldn’t we know evil first?” The response wasn’t what I expected—the speaker seemed offended: “If I came and cut off the hand of the person who asked, wouldn’t they appreciate good then?” I didn’t argue because the approach seemed flawed; I already had my hand, so cutting it off would mean experiencing good first, then something bad.
The Value of Experiencing “Gain”
What was I thinking at the time? At the time, I was considering how someone born blind would feel if they regained sight; every day would seem like a blessing. There’s a video online of a man, colorblind his whole life, seeing colors with special glasses for the first time. His joy is unmistakable. He will likely cherish those glasses as part of him.
Similarly, a deaf person who regain his hearing for the first time might savor every sound and voice differently than someone always able to hear.
Effects of Long-Term Hardship
That’s what I thought at that time, and I still hold some of those views, but I must consider another aspect: What happens to someone who experiences too much hardship throughout life? Unfortunately, such a person often transforms. Their survival instincts dominate, leading to a negative view of others and a defensive nature. Trust becomes difficult to establish. When something good happens, it is hard for them to accept it. They may believe, “All humans are alike,” making it challenging to embrace positivity.
Comparing Good with Hardship
When it comes to valuing the good, context is crucial. A person who has experienced both good and evil while maintaining moral values and not succumbing to negative egoism will have a deeper appreciation for the good and the peace they possess. This ability to compare experiences allows them to recognize and cherish the positive aspects of life more fully.
Many of us believe that we inherently deserve everything around us—our peace, our possessions, and our lifestyles. We take for granted the air we breathe and the people in our lives, assuming they will always be there. However, the COVID-19 pandemic shook this belief to its core, reminding us how quickly life can change. It made us realize that our loved ones may not always be with us and that today’s certainty can vanish tomorrow.
The Importance of Gratitude
Personally, despite the challenges of this pandemic—such as isolation and social restrictions—I find strength in comparing my situation to worse ones. My grandfather, at my age, faced the uncertainty of war, not knowing what the next moment would bring. This perspective makes me mindful of the severe hardships faced by those in war zones, highlighting how fortunate I am in my current circumstances.
Regardless of the truth behind conspiracy theories, we should focus on what matters most. No matter how we emerge from this pandemic, we must cherish our freedom and appreciate the people, nature, and small joys around us. It’s essential to learn how to live in harmony, as nothing in this world is guaranteed—not even the next moment.