The notion of conscience is something I've not explored with depth, but I can tell you that my conscience is at work all the time, and if there's even a sliver of unconscionable behavior, I'm dreaming about it at night. For example, yesterday I signed up to receive a supply in the mail at the suggestion of a friend. I read through the material quickly and ordered the supply, but then, in the middle of the night, I awoke with a dream that made me question the order. Was I doing the right thing?
Rather than lie in bed fretting about this, I woke up, researched the matter and sighed relief when I learned that the order was legitimate and no harm was done. This was a very simple matter, and if I had erred, it would not have been a big deal, but my conscience would not allow me to rest until I knew for sure it was the right decision.
In watching a show recently, I witnessed a women make a grave error. It was not intentional, but very serious. The women was beside herself with worry and self-contempy. Her conscience would not let her rest as she reviewed the problem over and over again with detail. Ultimately the problem was resolved and the women recognized that though the error was caused by a complexity of unexpected events, her reaction demonstrated that she was not centered or focused enough for the deep, good work she was doing.
If we take time to listen to what our conscience tells us, we will understand a lot about our direction in life. A good conscience developed over time via mentors, education, reflection, observation, spiritual activity and more leads us well.
When we meet people who seem to have little or no conscience, it is very worrisome as what these people are willing to do without regard for the consequences of their actions is troubling--we can see the calvacade of harm they create as they act without humanity and waste so much good time, money and potential.
A conscience must continually be developed via lifelong learning, contemplation, conversation, reflection, prayer and good action on your own and with others. I want to think more about conscience in the days ahead. Let me know if you have thoughts or questions in this regard.