First of all, I should make an effort
to meditate upon the equality between self and others.
I should protect all beings as I do myself,
because we are all equal in wanting pleasure and not wanting pain.

When both myself and others
are similar in that we wish to be happy,
What is so special about me?
Why do I strive for my happiness alone?

And when both myself and others
are similar in that we do not wish to suffer,
What is so special about me?
Why do I protect myself and not others? 

 Buddhist Sage Shantideva