If you expect the world to be fair with you because are fair with them,
it is like expecting a lion not to eat you because you don’t eat lion!
This quote captures a fundamental truth about life: fairness and justice are not always reciprocated, and expecting them to be is naive. The analogy of expecting a lion not to eat you because you don’t eat lions vividly illustrates this point. Lions, in their natural habitat, do not follow human concepts of fairness or morality. They operate on instinct, hunger, and survival.
Likewise, the world can be harsh, unpredictable, and often unfair. Despite your best efforts to be fair, just, and kind, there is no guarantee that others will treat you the same way. People have their motivations, biases, and circumstances that influence their actions, which may not align with principles of fairness and justice. Expecting everyone to behave in a fair manner just because you do is setting yourself up for disappointment and frustration.
However, this is not a pessimistic view of the world; instead, it is a realistic one. Understanding that fairness is not always reciprocated can help you navigate life more effectively. It encourages you to be fair not because you expect fairness in return, but because it aligns with your values and principles. It promotes the idea of doing good for the sake of goodness itself, without expecting immediate or direct rewards.
Moreover, it highlights the importance of being aware of the realities of the world while also maintaining your integrity. It suggests that you should continue to be fair, just, and compassionate, not because you expect others to be the same way, but because these qualities define your character and contribute positively to the world. In the face of unfairness, your consistent fairness can inspire change, even if it might not be immediate or universal. Ultimately, the quote serves as a reminder to stay true to your principles, regardless of the actions of others, and to approach the world with both kindness and realistic expectations.
