Meaning
This proverb means that doing good deeds, being honest, kind, and morally upright is rewarding in itself. One doesn’t need external recognition or reward; the satisfaction of acting rightly brings inner peace, self-respect, and happiness. True virtue is its own compensation.
Understanding the Idea
People often perform good deeds expecting rewards, but genuine virtue is about integrity and ethical behavior. When you act rightly, you cultivate trust, respect, and a sense of personal fulfillment that money or fame cannot provide.
A Beautiful and Relatable Moral Story
Anita, a young school teacher, always prioritized honesty and fairness. One day, she found an envelope containing a large sum of money in the school courtyard. Many students had noticed it, and rumors spread about who might take it. Anita could have kept it unnoticed, but she chose to hand it over to the principal.
The money belonged to an elderly janitor, who had been saving for months to pay for his daughter’s medical treatment. The principal returned the money to him, and the janitor was overwhelmed with gratitude. Anita felt a deep sense of satisfaction knowing she had done the right thing. She didn’t seek praise or recognition, but her integrity earned her respect from the entire school.
Over time, students started emulating her honesty and fairness. Anita realized that her virtuous actions inspired others, creating a ripple effect of goodness. She understood that true reward lies in doing the right thing, not in expecting external rewards.
Moral
Acting with integrity and kindness brings its own satisfaction and inspires others.