In the Apology, Socrates introduces the idea of the good Life, which has three main elements. First, one must never do wrong even when one is wronged. That is one should not repay injustice with injustice, or return a harm for a harm both of which can cause harm to oneself. Second, one must seek wisdom, by valuing the good opinions of the few who are wise and not the worthless ones from the many who are ignorant. Listening to the wrong opinion can bring harm to oneself and corrupt one’s soul making life not worth living. However, life is only worth living if one is just even though the many can put one to death. Third, the good Life leads to happiness.
The only life worth living is the examined one. We act on decisions that bring more despair than happiness but we can learn from them and as a result gain knowledge.
As for contemporary examples, in my opinion humanitarians are the ideal example of someone living the good life. Whether we are wealthy or poor, simply giving and helping those in need because of our moral obligation is exemplary.
We all should do our part in improving society. Those who do so are often judged and accused of having ulterior motives and only thinking of what they can benefit. However, if they truly have knowledge or demonstrate that they are open to gaining knowledge then they would be living the good life, therefore, they wouldn’t be phased by what others think.
At some point in our lives we have done wrong to someone, whether it was intentional or unintentional. We can still live the good life if we realize that we have hurt someone by apologizing genuinely, showing that we have learnt and hence become wiser.
In a given society, rich and average people have the same rights, live by the same laws and gain both good and bad experiences throughout life. Everyone has equal opportunities to do good deeds by fulfilling their moral obligation and learning from their mistakes.
The good Life is essentially one of happiness and being at peace with oneself.