Achieving a status worthy of "The Good Place" requires a moral groundwork appropriate to ethical living in the modern world. With thoughtful nuance, it would first recognize that individual circumstances, systemic influences, and human behavior all play crucial roles in determining one's ethical standing. As such, it might underscore how  voluntary actions alone deserve praise or blame, aligning with philosophical concepts of free will and moral responsibility. This perspective suggests that individuals should be held accountable for their conscious choices rather than circumstances beyond their control. In other words, not all bad deeds are equal; taking into account the entire situation, we often find genuine ill will responsible for some “bad deeds,” since  what looks like a moral failing might actually be the result of circumstances outside someone’s control—systemic pressures, lack of resources, or other external factors. Recognizing this complexity allows us to respond with greater empathy and fairness, distinguishing between actions rooted in genuine ill will and those shaped by factors beyond an individual’s reach. 

At the same time, it's important to consider that the line between voluntary and involuntary actions can sometimes be too blurry. What is considered "reasonable" or "just" can differ across societies, cultural contexts, members of communities, and even within one’s self; also, maintaining consistency in one's morals, while adapting to changing circumstances and new information, can be challenging. When it comes to justice and fairness, it’s clear that having a consistent moral compass is no easy feat. In that light, classical philosophical ideas about the importance of fairness must apply to ethical behavior today. Furthermore, it’s helpful to recognize that some traditional religious frameworks have long emphasized the need for a steady sense of justice and right and wrong. Even if you’re coming from a secular viewpoint, there’s value in acknowledging that these religious traditions have contributed important ideas about why fairness matters, and why it’s not enough to just follow rules or check boxes. 

Rather than simply following rules, then, perhaps moral behavior involves an active commitment to promoting justice in one's interactions with others.  A more inclusive and positive approach to morality would encourage individuals to focus on actively doing good to others, rather than just avoiding perceived wrongdoing. When we fixate on labeling certain actions as "sins," it can hinder a proactive and constructive approach to ethical living. It also arguably diminishes “ordinary” good deeds in comparison to grander gestures. In other words diminishes the importance of everyday acts of kindness in comparison to larger, more visible good deeds. Instead, imagine a spectrum of good actions when considering what makes someone a good person, ranging from simple acts of kindness to significant philanthropic endeavors. Within this spectrum, all genuine acts of good, no matter how big or small, hold equal value. These positive actions may manifest differently based on individual lives, capabilities, opportunities, and goals, but genuine goodness on any level should always be valued and never be diminished.

This framework's mindful balance of personal desires with the happiness of others reflects a mature understanding of human interconnectivity. In understanding external influences, and promoting a holistic view of “good deeds,” we might find a potential path on which to journey through the practical considerations of modern life. In other words, mindfulness, in this context, isn’t just about personal well-being. It’s about being genuinely attentive to how our actions affect others and the world around us. By staying present and aware of both our own motivations and the needs of those around us, we’re better equipped to strike a balance between self-interest and the greater good.  

Even if you’re coming from a secular viewpoint, there’s value in acknowledging that these religious traditions have contributed important ideas about why fairness matters.

My journey on this path has meant departing from the conventional path I once envisioned. Initially, I believed that adhering to a strict, unsecular life was the key to spiritual fulfillment, but I began to question the attainability and even the authenticity of such a life. This led me to critically examine long-held beliefs about God, religion, and the principles I had been taught. Eventually, I learned to release the fear of divine retribution or societal expectations and ceased striving for an unattainable image of perfection. Instead, I recalled Matthew 6:1: "Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them; if you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.” 

As time passed after my mother’s death, I came to the realization that her religious pressure was gone. I love her; I know she only meant well for me and that she would love me, even now– despite her beliefs, but now was the time to finally live more authentically. Her teachings will forever guide me and I will always think about whether I'm making her proud. Although this epiphany made me understand that my own truth mattered more than fulfilling my mother's or anyone else's expectations. I recognized that genuine acts of kindness and service are performed with pure intentions, devoid of any expectation of reward or fear of punishment.   

My goal now is to live authentically, honoring my personal desires while carefully considering the needs, dreams, and aspirations of my family, friends, and partner. It is about finding my place in the world and becoming the person I wish to see more of: someone who cares deeply for others, regardless of their background, a dedicated philanthropist, a supporter of the arts, and an advocate for social justice. This personal standard, born from reflection and introspection, represents my path towards eudaimonia, a sense of contentment and completeness that nourishes my soul. 

In the finale of ‘The Good Place’, the main characters each find their own sense of peace and decide to walk through a "Last Door," marking the end of their journey in the afterlife. This moment beautifully captures the true fulfillment that comes from embracing the impermanence of existence. Likewise, perhaps we may each embrace life’s fleeting nature, and find our own path on an ever-evolving journey of spiritual discovery. With hope, we might then strive for a better version of ourselves, while finding solace and purpose in the interconnectedness of all humanity.

For the first two part of Kai's journey, go to Part I, "The Inferno Of Doubt; or, Good Girls Make It Into Heaven," and Part II, "The Purgatory of Philosophy; or, Understanding Humans And Their Actions." 

Works Cited 

Michael Schur, The Good Place,  Fremulon, 3 Arts Entertainment and Universal Television 2016. 

Singer, Peter. The Most Good You Can Do: How Effective Altruism Is Changing Ideas About Living Ethically. Yale University Press, 2015. 

Kant, Immanuel. Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals. 1785. 

Dancy, J. (1993). Moral Reasons. Blackwell Publishers.   

Dancy, J. (2004). Ethics Without Principles. Oxford University Press. 

Aristotle. "Nicomachean Ethics." Translated by Terence Irwin, Hackett Publishing Company, 1999.

For the first two parts of Kai's journey, go to Part I, "The Inferno Of Doubt; or, Good Girls Make It Into Heaven," and Part II, "The Purgatory of Philosophy; or, Understanding Humans And Their Actions."