Good Person

Five things we're meant to say

Good fruit. Klee.

“Just be a good person,” says the gets-along-with-everybody man. And I think I know what he means.

“I never burn bridges,” he beams. “Live and let live.”

“What a good man,” we’re meant to say. “Beloved by all.”

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"Mormons are good people,” say others. “By their fruits shall ye know them, and their fruits are wholesome family living. Look, they’re even having more babies. That can’t be wrong.”

“And they’re so nice!” they add, “just look.”

“What a good people,” we’re meant to say. “A little different from us, but they’re okay. They’ve got the lives we want.”

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“Your religion is cruel,” says the devout man. “My faith is more welcoming. In my faith, all good people go to heaven, regardless of their beliefs. In my faith, it only matters that they are good.”

“My God is great,” he proclaims. “Why shouldn’t He reward the good?”

“What a generous God,” we’re meant to say. “Why would I worship a God who wants less?”

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“There are terrible diseases,” says the geneticist. “Diseases that can ruin your child’s chance of having a good life. Don’t you want good outcomes for your child? The best outcomes?”

“The kindest thing you can do for your future children,” he smiles, “is give them the best chance at a good life.”

“A good life,” we’re meant to say, “is what I want for my children.”

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“I knew a man once who was very intelligent. He had the opportunity to go to a big school. To get his PhD in rocket surgery. In who knows what. But he felt a weight on his heart about it. Every night he would pray. He had no peace. And then God revealed this to him. Are you listening? There is no reward in seeking your own glory. Only in staying obedient in your place.”

“Be gentle, meek, and obedient in your place,” says the preacher. “Like Christ.”

“What a good man,” we’re meant to say. “His reward will be in heaven.”