Imagine an imaginary piece of art with magical powers. When you gaze at it without any preconceived notions, it remains blank. But when you conjure up something in your mind, it transforms into a vivid picture. Now, place this piece of art on display in an art gallery for public viewing. As people of all ages gaze upon it, suddenly images begin to appear—from depictions of God and Buddha to statues of deities. Sometimes it remains blank, and other times it might show Jesus, the Devil, or even a nude figure. Remember, it reflects whatever we think or imagine, for it is indeed a magical piece of art.
The issue arises with conflicts over the images that appear on this blank screen. How far have we evolved, and when will we be able to take responsibility for our actions as individuals? Many social problems we face—such as prejudice, racism, discrimination, and spiritual crimes—are rooted in our sense of belonging.
The causes of these harms and their solutions are not solely societal; if they were, we would have resolved them long ago. Personally, I believe the key to solutions lies with individuals, as harms are inflicted and endured by individuals.
If we each become the CEO of our own lives—a distinct possibility given our shared potential—we exercise our free will daily. By using our free will, we assume the role of CEO and take responsibility for our actions. The degree of blame may vary, but ultimately, each individual orders or follows through on actions related to their sense of belonging.
From Hiroshima and Nagasaki to Rwanda and Syria, collective involvement has been evident, but decisions have always been made, carried out, and will continue to be made by individuals. If individuals have CEO-like authority, they can choose not to proceed. It’s akin to deciding not to drive drunk—when you opt to drink, it becomes your responsibility to arrange alternative transportation. Similarly, joining the military or its opposing groups involves a decision, and the responsibility for any harm inflicted, even inadvertently, lies with the individual.
Despite all our civilization and evolution, we should be capable of respecting each other’s life perspectives, irrespective of differences, especially concerning unknowns related to God. We should all exercise humility and stand up against the political manipulations within our respective groups. Remember, God can profoundly influence emotionally passionate individuals, but ultimately, it is the human individual’s free will and responsibility that create equilibrium in everyday life. Taking another’s life over a belief system is akin to eroding God, one person or cell at a time—not necessarily significant politically, but a grave spiritual and moral offense.
The benefits of having a belief system are immense; spiritually valuing it leaves no room for politicization. Whether to integrate or segregate politics from your religion is a personal choice, but as a CEO of your life, you must take responsibility for your actions. Just as drunk driving is condemned because you choose to drink and become intoxicated, the decisions we make shape our accountability.
Respect yourself as part of God’s body, comprising trillions of other cells, and extend that respect to others as you wish to receive it yourself. Embrace the wisdom of spirituality and your personal imagination; if the piece of art appears blank to you, explore the depths of your imagination. This artwork may be blank to some and not to others. As your imagination evolves and matures, learn to value its significance in life, for disregarding your own or others’ imaginations is a sign of disrespect. Respect for others begets respect, while disrespect breeds the same treatment in return. Living with self-respect marks the initial stride toward a spiritual journey.
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