The Golden Rule—rooted in empathy, respect, and goodwill—takes on a unique, vibrant expression on the island of St. Croix, where greetings like “Good Morning” and “Goodnight” serve as both a courtesy and a blessing. These simple, sincere words embody the island’s traditional wisdom and welcoming spirit, inviting all to share in the day’s peace. For visitors, the custom of beginning interactions with “Good” honors a legacy of kindness, offering a way to engage respectfully and warmly with the local community
What are the Golden Rules on St. Croix?
First, the Golden Rule is celebrated as virtuous empathy, expressed in the courtesy and mannerisms of the island’s traditional sayings. This includes starting and ending the day with the blessing-laden word “Good,” which is woven into greetings such as “Good Day,” “Good Morning,” “Good Afternoon,” and “Goodnight.” Even casual phrases like “Oh my goodness” reflect this custom.
Respectful visitors arriving on the island for the first time are encouraged to follow the Golden Rules of St. Croix by starting requests with a “Good” greeting. For example, it is customary to begin by saying “Good Morning” or “Good Afternoon” when asking someone for help or information. Similarly, ending a conversation or gathering with “Goodnight” is considered polite.
The Golden Rule also has roots in other cultures. For instance, Chinese sages promoted ancestor worship and virtuous living in pursuit of peace, as seen in Confucianism. Jewish culture has also upheld a Golden Rule for centuries, based on the ethical principle of “Love your Neighbor,” a teaching famously reinforced by Rabbi Hillel as a moral duty of justice and mercy. In the Bible’s King James Version, the Golden Rule aligns with the commandments, while in Mormonism, it extends to laws of health, chastity, and family values, with practices like the temple garment symbolizing sacred adherence to the Golden Rule.
On St. Croix, the Golden Rule means wishing well for others, practicing genuine kindness, and striving for self-improvement, all contributing to personal happiness. The island is known for its empathy, for giving without expectation, and for offering help to those in need. Good deeds are believed to bring good in return, even when life presents challenges. Staying true to positive values, even amid adversity, is always the preferred choice.
The Golden Rules are embedded in the island’s heritage, passed down from ancestors. The powers of freedom, prayer, and goodness are revered as sources of blessings and are believed to return goodness to those who share it.
Conclusion:
The Golden Rule on St. Croix remains more than an idea—it is a way of life, an ongoing commitment to empathy, kindness, and resilience. Whether practiced through shared greetings, thoughtful gestures, or helping hands, it fosters a community rooted in positive connections and compassionate reciprocity. By embracing the island’s Golden Rule, both locals and visitors contribute to a cycle of goodwill, ensuring that the spirit of St. Croix endures as a place of warmth, respect, and heartfelt generosity.