Be quick to do good. If you are slow, the mind, delighting in mischief, will catch you.

This quote by Gautama Buddha emphasizes the importance of taking immediate action when it comes to doing good deeds. It suggests that if you hesitate or delay in performing a positive action, your mind could potentially divert you towards negative or harmful behavior instead. This is because the human mind is inherently curious and often drawn towards mischief or chaos, which can be more enticing than calm and order.

In essence, Buddha advises us to be vigilant about our thoughts and actions. The phrase “Be quick to do good” encourages us not only to perform virtuous acts but also to do so with urgency and immediacy. It’s about seizing the moment before distractions or temptations have a chance to sway our intentions.

Applying this idea in today’s world can take many forms. In personal development, it might mean acting on positive impulses as soon as they arise – whether that’s helping someone in need, expressing gratitude, or making healthy lifestyle choices.

For example, if you think of complimenting someone on their work – do it immediately rather than waiting for a ‘better time.’ If you feel like donating clothes that are no longer needed instead of hoarding them – act on that impulse promptly before your mind rationalizes reasons not to.

On a broader societal level, this could involve taking swift action on pressing issues such as climate change or social inequality before apathy sets in or self-interest diverts attention elsewhere.

Ultimately, this quote serves as a reminder: Doing good should be an urgent priority because delaying virtuous actions gives room for negativity and harm to seep into our lives.