If you are seeking answers in texts written thousands of years ago, compare them with present scientific advances. Neither offers the perfection you seek, illustrating that humans are far from being a finished product.
Despite thousands of years of religious knowledge and evolution, we still witness tragic events, such as the little boy found dead on the beach, fleeing religious extremism.
For millennia, we have struggled to clearly understand or see God as an obvious entity, mainly because we have perceived God as separate from us. If God were obvious, mankind’s actions wouldn’t matter. Yet, from miraculous healings to technological advancements and the merging of biology with computers, all knowledge stems from humanity. Man seeks perfection and progresses despite inherent imperfections.
As individuals, our lives are mortal. Constantly seeking perfection should be tempered, as perfection is not worth sacrificing life or health. Yet, our sense of belonging often imprisons us in a living hell.
Consider relationships: a perfect stranger can enter your life, alleviating loneliness and offering love, companionship, and children. These are invaluable gifts, yet we often throw them away because society dictates our happiness and contentment. Imagine if you were born 5,000 years ago or 500 years in the future—would you break up a relationship over others’ opinions? Ultimately, your happiness is your responsibility, not society’s decision.
People live under various religious settings. For example, the Canadian government lost a human rights case regarding the hijab or niqab, and we have polygamy and other lifestyles within our so-called civilized society. We can’t trample on anyone’s rights. Ironically, the same laws that protect gay marriage and sexual freedom also protect polygamy. Conservatives often avoid discussing polygamy because it’s all about the politics of belonging. We must respect differences, but when extreme beliefs violate others’ rights, we must prioritize our humanity. Treat others as you wish to be treated.
Each of us is capable of breaking free from personal imprisonment. Be a CEO of your own life, prioritize happiness, and recognize that social norms should serve individuals, not cause hardship or discontent. If your sense of belonging causes unhappiness, override it—you are in control.
Years ago, I watched Dr. Wayne Dyer speak about the four levels of human evolution:
- Owning: As children, we learn to own things—my mom, my toy, etc.
- Comparing: We claim, “mine is better than yours.”
- Self-interest: We ask, “what’s in it for me?”
- Service: We ask, “what can I do for you?”
Spiritually and socially, religions have helped us evolve. In science and technology, we owe much to scientists. Despite our progress, we remain stuck at the second level, comparing and competing. This learned behavior stems from our belonging groups, not from our nature.
Why do we believe we are better because of our religion, race, or gender? This knowledge is taught. Overcome it with knowledge. People resist being told what to do, yet gladly imprison themselves in their sense of belonging.
Until we recognize our self-worth, we can’t discover the God within us. Viewing God as external makes us feel insignificant. Recognizing God within raises self-esteem and fosters mutual respect.
Who benefits from our weakness? Other humans, through the politics of belonging. The concept of God confounds even the best minds. Some embrace it, others deny it. To believe in God, look within. If you feel inadequate, reconsider how your religion presents God.
If you are an atheist, ask yourself if your disbelief is a reaction to enforced beliefs. If you continually learn, you are not a finished product. Denying or affirming God’s existence is an assumption. We are evolving, using a fraction of our brainpower, continually inventing and learning.
Religions teach that humans are insignificant, but remember that a single cell can cause cancer. Similarly, humans are integral to God’s existence. Picture yourself as a bottle of alcohol; the alcohol inside is God, making you dance. Feel empowered but responsible.
Everyone carries a God molecule, essential for life. As humanity evolves, so does our concept of God. Some fear destruction, but I am optimistic about our growth.
Religions and science can intoxicate us, leading to extreme behavior. Believing you are part of God’s process fosters spiritual awareness, humility, and wisdom. Each individual must prioritize self-survival to contribute to God’s work. We are more useful alive, then we serve society or God.
Why do religious extremes exist? They stem from ego, a product of our sense of belonging. Ego can drive success but also hinder progress. Embrace your journey, break free from societal chains, and seek a balanced, fulfilling life.