I saw this sign on the wall of one of the buildings in the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden in Vancouver. Since the picture's not that great, here's what it says...

The Four-Way Test of the things we think, say or do

1. Is it the TRUTH?

2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?

3. Will it build GOODWILL and better FRIENDSHIPS?

4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

I think this is a great list. I try to ask myself these questions when making a decision, although I don't necessarily do it systematically. Maybe I should try to keep these questions in my head?


I recall a conversation with a colleague last fall when he was having some issues with his students, his colleagues, his classmates, and his teachers. I basically asked him these questions. He was very concerned with answering #1, but he tended to ignore #3 and #4. And the saddest part was that he did not understand why they were important.

I wonder what would happen if more people asked these questions. But since I can't change the world, maybe I should start with myself.

This post was inspired by this article. I found the article inspiring, because it is a good reminder of what is really important. Actually, I have often thought that these are the most important things in life, so it was nice to get some validation in print. :)

Here are the author's 10 questions that one should ask oneself every day:

1. Have I made certain that those I love feel loved?
2. Have I done something today that improved the world?
3. Have I conditioned my body to be more strong flexible and resilient?
4. Have I reviewed and honed my plans for the future?
5. Have I acted in private with the same integrity I exhibit in public?
6. Have I avoided unkind words and deeds?
7. Have I accomplished something worthwhile?
8. Have I helped someone less fortunate?
9. Have I collected some wonderful memories?
10. Have I felt grateful for the incredible gift of being alive?