Aspects of Being
Many nowadays, or perhaps always, have been accused of borrowing aspects from different faiths to 'subsidize' their own foundations. I presume the accusers mean to insinuate that these foundations are nothing more than a patchwork of wayward beliefs which amount to nothing solid, worthy, or long-standing. I've come to learn to make my own interpretations of these accusations as I have thought on them. Clearly this phenomenon poses a perceived threat to the Status Quo, although one wonders whether it's about power or truth. Power is not usually shared. Truth is. First of all, allow me to define what is, in my mind, the difference between borrowing and 'adopting'; To "borrow" - without getting too deep into semantics (I mean, I'll give it my best shot!) -implies to me a trying-on-for-size and a possible return. Perhaps it does not necessarily include a full appreciation or evaluation of a faith's true merits, but is merely "convenient" at a certain point in one's life. Cults may exemplify this phenomenon in its worst manifestation though it's worth bearing in mind that many groups indeed shun the outside. Hey, it happens! Let us admit that Faith is a complex thing, and that many do indeed engage in seeking what suits their perceived purposes best - even (and um...sometimes especially) those seemingly "above reproach". Let us also admit that dogmas have forever been a source of controversy and divisiveness, and that it is we who in fact have made it complex, for good or ill. Nevertheless, I say that questions can ultimately be a blessing, for no answers ever came without one! I also say that Faith is a journey and not a destination.... In contrast, "adopting" infers a loving undertaking, a conscientious decision made with commitment and awareness, and includes an ever-evolving appreciation of the cultivated diversity of Wisdoms that exist within the foundations of a particular faith, if not the many! Such a choice, made in the endeavouring spirit of honesty, and which embraces a wholesome curiosity, does not include an "agenda" - a purpose that suits only the one, or the few. It strikes one as being Universal and seeks not to be exclusionary, but rather strives to embrace all of Humanity in all its conditions. We all come from the same place, though our journeys vary while here.... True Wisdom, in seeking
it, or in its fruition, should not be sought nor 'enforced' in order to
essentially define Right or Wrong. Rather it strives for that which serves
the common and individual purpose by the most compassionate and accessible
means possible.
I, ah....believe it's
called Love........
Though there be but one master,
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