*By Dr. Devan
Introduction
In the fleeting course of life, opportunities present themselves like gentle whispers from destiny—urging us to act, to serve, to give, and to make a difference. Yet, more often than not, we delay, rationalize, or postpone these calls to goodness. “I’ll do it later,” we say, assuming that tomorrow will be just as kind and forgiving as today. But tomorrow is never guaranteed. Life’s moments—like the tides of the sea—rise and retreat without notice. Thus, whenever you get a chance to do good to society, do it. For later, that chance may be gone.
This statement embodies a timeless truth. The opportunity to do good is not eternal; it is perishable. It comes quietly, often disguised as a simple need, a passing request, or a subtle nudge of conscience. The wise seize it; the complacent lose it. In understanding this, we grasp the essence of purpose—that our true value lies not in what we possess, but in what we give back.
The Transience of Opportunity
Life is not an endless stream of second chances. The opportunity to do good is like a flower that blooms only once in a season. If not nurtured or appreciated, it withers away—leaving behind nothing but regret.
We often think there will be time later—to volunteer, to donate, to speak for the voiceless, to help a struggling student, to visit the sick, or to protect nature. But time is an unreliable friend. What we intend to do tomorrow, we may never get to do. The person we meant to help may move away or pass on; the situation we could have improved may have changed; our own health, energy, or resources may no longer permit it.
In truth, opportunities to do good are not only about chance—they are about alignment. When your ability meets someone’s need, that is destiny offering you a divine intersection. Ignoring it is not just neglect—it is a missed calling.
The Ripple Effect of a Single Good Deed
When you do good, you rarely do it for one person alone. Acts of goodness have a multiplier effect, rippling through time and space in ways we cannot foresee.
Consider a teacher who encourages a struggling child. That moment of kindness may inspire confidence that lasts a lifetime, shaping a scientist, a doctor, or a leader who later transforms countless lives. A small donation to educate a girl today could build the foundation for an entire family’s upliftment tomorrow. A helping hand extended to a stranger in distress may plant a seed of gratitude that blossoms into more kindness spread through society.
Each act of goodness expands beyond its original moment. Like sunlight through a prism, it refracts into countless colors—touching lives far beyond our sight. To do good, therefore, is to participate in the continuous renewal of humanity’s spirit.
Why People Miss Their Chance to Do Good
Despite knowing the value of goodness, many fail to act. The reasons are numerous:
Complacency: “Someone else will help.”
Fear: “What if it’s not appreciated?” or “What if I get involved in trouble?”
Selfish Priorities: “Let me first become successful, then I’ll give back.”
Doubt: “My contribution is too small to make a difference.”
These are illusions—subtle excuses that rob us of moral courage. History shows that great societal change often begins with small, individual acts. Mahatma Gandhi’s salt march began with one man walking. Mother Teresa’s global movement began with one woman holding a dying man’s hand. Even a single good act, done sincerely, can alter the moral climate around us.
The Moral and Psychological Rewards of Doing Good
Goodness enriches not just the receiver, but the giver. Acts of kindness have profound psychological benefits. They reduce stress, boost happiness, and generate a deep sense of fulfillment. Neuroscientific studies have shown that altruistic behavior releases endorphins and oxytocin—the “happiness hormones.”
But beyond biology lies something spiritual. When you help others, you align yourself with the universe’s law of harmony. You become a conduit for positive energy, a participant in the grand symphony of creation. The satisfaction of having contributed—even in the smallest way—to society’s well-being is incomparable. It brings meaning to existence and peace to the soul.
Doing Good in Everyday Life
Doing good need not always be grand. It is not measured by scale but by sincerity. You don’t need to start a foundation or donate millions to be of service. Goodness lives in the everyday moments where humanity reveals itself:
Offering your seat to the elderly.
Listening patiently to someone who feels unheard.
Teaching a child something valuable.
Helping a colleague without expecting credit.
Feeding a hungry animal.
Recycling and respecting the environment.
Forgiving those who wronged you, thus breaking the chain of negativity.
Each of these acts, though small in appearance, strengthens the moral fabric of society. Society is not a distant abstraction—it is us. When each person contributes a little good, the collective good becomes enormous.
The Tragedy of Lost Opportunities
For every moment seized, there are a hundred moments lost. Many realize too late the cost of inaction. A doctor may regret not spending more time comforting a patient. A son may grieve not visiting his aging parent. A leader may wish he had acted earlier to stop an injustice. Life’s greatest regrets often begin with the phrase, “I wish I had...”
The tragedy of missed opportunities is that they rarely return. You cannot go back in time to undo indifference. The door of today closes quietly at midnight, and no force can reopen it. The only remedy is awareness—the mindfulness to recognize opportunities for goodness as they appear, and the courage to act immediately.
The Societal Impact of Doing Good
A society thrives when its members act not out of compulsion, but out of compassion. The strength of any civilization lies not in its economy or technology but in its humanity.
Imagine a world where everyone waited for others to do good—it would stagnate in apathy. But when individuals take responsibility for the well-being of others, society evolves. Civic responsibility, social service, environmental care, and mutual respect—these form the pillars of a thriving community.
Doing good is not only an act of charity; it is an investment in the social ecosystem. It builds trust, cooperation, and harmony. It reduces crime, mental distress, and alienation. It makes cities kinder, workplaces more humane, and families more loving.
The Spiritual Dimension
Every religion, philosophy, and moral system emphasizes the virtue of doing good. Whether it is Karma Yoga in Hinduism, Seva in Sikhism, Zakat in Islam, or Charity in Christianity—the message is the same: giving is divine.
In spiritual terms, when you do good, you purify your soul. You become a channel of divine energy, fulfilling the purpose for which life was given to you. Each act of goodness adds to your spiritual merit, shaping your destiny in this life and beyond.
The Bhagavad Gita says: “The one who performs good acts selflessly, without attachment to the fruits, attains peace.” The essence lies not in recognition but in intent. Doing good for its own sake—without expectation—is the purest expression of humanity.
The Call to Action
Life offers us limited time but unlimited opportunities to serve. Every day, ask yourself: What good can I do today? It could be a small step, a quiet contribution, or even a kind thought. The key is to act when conscience calls.
If you can help someone, do it now.
If you can mentor a youth, do it now.
If you can plant a tree, do it now.
If you can comfort the grieving, do it now.
If you can speak out against injustice, do it now.
For the same chance may not return tomorrow. Life moves, people move, and so must your intention.
Conclusion
Goodness is the only legacy that time cannot erase. Wealth fades, fame dissolves, achievements are forgotten—but the goodness you do lives on, often in hearts you never meet and generations you never see.
So when destiny offers you a window to serve society, do it without hesitation. For later, that chance may be gone. In the end, it is not the years in your life that matter, but the good you infused into those years.
Let your life be a testament to compassion, your name a synonym for kindness, and your presence a light that others can follow.
For in doing good, you touch eternity.
*Dr. Devan is a Mangaluru-based ENT specialist and author.
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