”…left no good deed unpunished, no bad one unrewarded;” —Walter Map, De Nugis Curialium (12th Century)

It makes us feel good inside when we help someone else.

Whether we provide clear directions for a wandering stranger, allow a driver to merge in front of us, assist a friend in cleaning up a mess, or rescue an old lady’s cat from a tree, there is a longing deep in our spirit to make life a little smoother for a fellow human being, especially someone in danger or crisis.

If we do these things often enough, we will also get taken advantage of by a selfish someone!

“No good deed goes unpunished” is our modern version of the ancient saying that we sometimes cite when we feel duped or bamboozled when all we were doing was trying to help!

Selfish someones have existed for a long time. Selfishness was part of why Cain killed his brother Abel, and it is why some people take advantage of the good nature and deeds of others.

In schools, children are continually exposed to the deeds of others and themselves.

If we want more of the good deeds, we should work to create the conditions under which they are valued. Identify them, positively recognize them, and teach from them.

If we want less of the bad deeds, we should work to create the conditions under which they are dissuaded. Identify them, attach appropriate consequences, and teach from them.

Some selfish and manipulative adults have exhibited that behavior since they were children. We certainly don’t need to stop helping the many because of a few; but it would be in the best interest of society at large to reinforce accountability for personal responsibility in schools…and families.