To meet the challenges of our times, human beings will have to develop a greater sense of universal responsibility.
The Dalai Lama
… so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another.
The Apostle Paul in Romans 12:5
Understanding that we belong to one another is the heart of true spirituality. Like a stand of aspen trees interconnected by their roots, though many, we are one. Physically we partake of the same water, air, and earth. Emotionally we feel the same pain and exult in the same joy. Spiritually we originate from the same creative Source. We cannot harm another without harming ourselves. And when we lift another up, we too are lifted.
We may never know why it is so difficult for humans to live from this experience of oneness—to consistently see our deep kinship. Psychologically we can explain it—fear of not having enough, unhealed trauma passed down through generations, cruel conditions. There is value in knowing this. It opens doors of awareness for us that move us forward. Ultimately though if we are to do as the Dalai Lama and the Apostle Paul guide us, we must let go of wondering why and simply be willing to change.
There comes the time when we give up being afraid, let go of hate, release resentment, stop judging and condemning, and cease managing and controlling. Here there is space for a new experience—the trust that we are loved and taken care of. In this space we discover that no matter what anyone says or does, we simply love. We love them, we love our self. We love enough to set boundaries that show respect for ourselves and others. We love enough to hold ourselves and others accountable. Most deeply, we simply love – with compassion, wisdom, and appreciation. The result is harmony. The result is peace.
In the Love and Light of the Christ,
Rev. Anna
