I read a book titled "Morning Notes" on the train every morning on my way to work. Each day I read just a short nugget and, if I have time, muse about it in my journal.
Yesterday's passage pointed out something I need to work on myself. It's a short read, so it's easier for me to quote it then try and describe it. Here goes:
How could one person's way possibly be superior to another person's way if God is leading us all? If I believe that my spiritual path is superior, my path is not spiritual. Spirit is One. The divine doesn't contain degrees of correctness. ... The way out of chaos is to stop analyzing and start experiencing, to stop looking for the better ways to say it and start practicing more peaceful and inclusive ways of doing it.
As I read this, I was thinking, "Could I send this in e-mail to my brother and sister? They are always sending me religious e-mails. Now it's my turn!"
I started re-reading the passage to think about how I would present it to my brother and sister and then...suddenly...the lightbulb went on. I realized the only reason I wanted to send this passage to them was to point out that my way was more superior than their's because my way was inclusive! I read over the last sentence again and realized I have been looking for a better way to judge my brother and sister. I knew I couldn't send an e-mail with this passage in it without a little bit of judgemental intention. And it certainly would not bring peace to my relationship with my siblings.
I had to chuckle at myself when I realized I was doing exactly the thing I complain about others doing. I was grateful that I recognized it in myself. Though, I have to say, it felt a little like I was seeing myself on a survaillence camera taking candy from an open bin and putting it in my pocket. It certainly took me down a notch in my attitude about myself versus others.
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Comments: 8
Paul, you are right...and I'm slowly learning that the best course of action in many situations is no action other than a positive, peaceful attitude.
even the greatest book and best quotes still need to be applied to daily life, thanks for reminding !