Our world has become quite divided on religious grounds. It is interesting to note, however, that spiritual leaders have met many times and have come forward with a message of not just tolerance for each other, but of respect and honour. It is clear that they are in agreement on what is most important.
The most basic of these truths examines the key to a happy and meaningful life. Sages throughout the ages have written on this topic. It is summarized in Islamic, Jewish and Christian literature in the following way:
"This is what God asks of you, only this,
To act justly,
Love tenderly, and
Walk humbly with your God. "(Micah 6:8)
What does this mean? Let's take a look at it point by point, drawing from global wisdom.
Acting justly refers primarily to ourselves, not to imposing our understanding of justice onto others.
It means following ones conscience, doing what we know deep down is the right thing. Many religions and philosophies also emphasize the concept of social justice, meaning we care for the well-being of all and we live in a way that honours the sacredness of life. The Chinese philosopher Lao-Tzu tells us, "Regard your neighbor's gain as your own gain, and your neighbor's loss as your own loss."
Love is a word that can cause great confusion because there are many different types of love. There is love for humanity and the world, there is love for those who are close to us, and there is erotic love.
What does it mean to love, however? According to Brad Henning, it means "choosing the highest good for the other person."
This is further clarified in the teachings of the Buddha, "Radiate boundless love towards the entire world -above, below, and across - unhindered, without ill will, without enmity."
Humility is a word that has been terribly abused and misunderstood, especially in Christianity. It does not mean that we should put ourselves down and not celebrate ourselves. In fact, doing so can be seen as an insult to the creator who made all things good, including ourselves.
A wise teacher once told me that humility is simply truth. This truth is that I am beautiful and talented, and so is every other person.
Each of us is to be honoured and celebrated, but also not placed above others.
According to Meher Baba, "True humility is strength, not weakness. It disarms antagonism and ultimately conquers it."
Finally, the idea of "your God."
I find it interesting that this translation of the book of Micah does not distinguish one concept of God above any other. When looking at spirituality from around the world, there are many concepts of the divine, all are different, yet all have more commonalities than differences.
I recall an example when elementary school students followed the example of religious leaders and taught me an important lesson. While teaching in a Catholic school with a significant Sikh population, I was always moved by the reverence for Catholic practices demonstrated by my Sikh students.
As I dug deeper into this issue, I learned that respect for other religions is an important piece of their teaching. I was also pleased when a visit to the Sikh temple was suggested, and then thoroughly enjoyed by all.
