For past crimes if you felt guilty you try not to repeat that action again with anyone else, so you try harder. Acts of kindness, you pay it forward and that is rewarding and makes you feel good about you.
Karma has a way of sorting these things out...
My past errors of judgement, mistakes and lack of experience in some areas all contribute to my character, integrity, and to my identity. I don't repeat most errors because I have learned a lot from each one. I am committed to leaving a situation better than I found it, and to making a positive contribution in the lives of those who interact with me, even for a short time. My acts of kindness also contribute to identity, character, and integrity. If I am not kind, then what am I?
Learning from the past and acting accordingly is a sure sign of intelligence.
What I identify or define and determine are past crimes or acts of kindness are how I define myself.
My self identity, the type of person I believe I am, determines how I react or behave in various circumstances, or at any time.
I went to your profile just so I could chime in on some of your questions for the new year.
From Kodiak Alaska!!!
Have a great year Cj
Everything you do, no matter how big or small, affects who you are.
I would not change a single thing, good or bad, as that is why I am who I am.
I agree the older we get the more we should learn from past mistakes and grow!