By Their Fruits?

There are some people that blindly go through life never thinking or concerning themselves with other people. Then there are others whose concern may rest entirely on how they appear to the people they most want to impress -- examples include: bullying the weak to look strong; or only giving and serving conspicuously to excite notice as a courtier. Some people's actions, whether malicious or kind, are the result of conscious, concerted, and deliberate effort. And there are those that serve and help because they have no inclination to do otherwise. There are many types of people and motivations not enumerated in this short list, but one thing is certain: sometimes it is hard to tell which of these a man is simply by observing his actions.

To human eyes, the fruit may appear most ripe and sweet which is really bitter. The best fruit may not be outwardly appealing. You may see complete disregard for the man's self and over-zealous care for others and assume it is nothing more than a calculated display. Did he assist you because he wanted something in return? Do you believe that his destruction of property is willful, careless, or the result of being clumsy. Is he always late because he is hoping the work will be done before he gets there? Maybe he is always willing because he fears you will press him and find the truth -- he really has nothing better (else) to do. Conjecture may lead some to believe he sometimes intentionally fails for the same reason the proverbial man breaks the dishes. There are innumerable ways to interpret any action.

There are endless types of people and an infinite variety of motives, but let me tell you about one of those people. There is no doubt that his motives are pure, but a desire to do good is never enough to prevent ill from happening. He just fails to see the big picture. In a rush to serve he steps on toes, aggravates tense situations, and even causes physical damage. I write this to ask, should your paths ever cross, to be nice to him. If he does something stupid, try to imagine the intentions were pure. You may not know it is him, but try to assume the best in everyone (just in case it is him). He means well. It's just that he's a Well-Intentioned Idiot....


(A series of posts may follow which could document the antics of this particularly good-hearted bungler.)