Love, Forgiveness, and Correcting Social Injustices: My Religion and Philosophy
Throughout my journey, I have delved into the depths of various religions, seeking wisdom and understanding. From Judaism to Christianity, Islam to Hinduism, Buddhism to Taoism, Gnosticism to African religions, each of these belief systems has left an indelible mark on my spiritual exploration. While they may differ in their rituals and practices, they all share a common thread - the recognition of a higher power, a divine creator.
These religions teach us that we are not mere mortals, but rather, we are the sons and daughters of God. We are intricately connected to the divine, and our purpose on this earth is to live in harmony with one another and with the world around us. Love, forgiveness, and correcting social injustices form the cornerstone of my personal religion and philosophy.
One particular interpretation that has resonated deeply with me is Helen Schulman's A Course in Miracles. Rooted in a somewhat Gnostic interpretation of the Bible, this metaphysical text presents a unique perspective on our relationship with God. It suggests that we are not separate from God, but rather, we have always been in God. However, due to our resentment towards God's creation of us, we harbor a desire to create ourselves independently, which ultimately proves futile.
This concept of being created by God and remaining in God, despite our rebellious tendencies, speaks to the core of my beliefs. It reminds me that we are all interconnected, bound by a common origin and purpose. Love, forgiveness, and the pursuit of justice are not only essential for our personal growth but also for the betterment of society as a whole.
The Power of Love
Love is the driving force behind my religion and philosophy. It is the catalyst for healing, transformation, and unity. Love has the power to transcend barriers, dissolve hatred, and bring about genuine change in the world. When we approach life with love, we open ourselves to the possibility of understanding and empathy.
In a world plagued by division and conflict, embracing love becomes even more crucial. By practicing love in our daily lives, we can bridge the gaps between individuals and communities. Love compels us to see beyond our differences and recognize the inherent worth and dignity of every human being.
The Path of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is another fundamental aspect of my religion and philosophy. It is a transformative act that liberates both the forgiver and the forgiven. When we hold onto grudges and resentments, we carry the weight of negativity within us, hindering our own growth and perpetuating cycles of harm.
Forgiveness allows us to break free from these chains and find peace within ourselves. It does not mean condoning or forgetting the wrongs committed, but rather, it is a conscious choice to release the grip of anger and resentment. Through forgiveness, we can heal wounds, rebuild relationships, and create a more compassionate society.
Correcting Social Injustices
My religion and philosophy also call me to actively engage in correcting social injustices. It is not enough to simply hold beliefs; we must embody them through our actions. In a world plagued by inequality, discrimination, and oppression, it is our duty to stand up for justice and advocate for those who are marginalized.
Whether it is fighting against racial injustice, advocating for gender equality, or addressing systemic poverty, we have a responsibility to challenge the status quo and work towards a more just and equitable society. This requires us to examine our own privileges and biases, educate ourselves on the issues at hand, and take meaningful action to effect change.
Conclusion
Love, forgiveness, and correcting social injustices form the pillars of my religion and philosophy. They guide me in my interactions with others and shape the way I navigate the world. By embracing love, practicing forgiveness, and actively working towards social justice, we can create a more compassionate, inclusive, and harmonious society.
After UCLA College of Letters where I obtained PhD is Philosophy, Psychology and Religion I got a teaching job at the University. I felt uneasy teaching. I applied for a job in the mental health field; I got many offers and within two years was running the mental health center where I worked, supervising psychologists and psychiatrists who have been in that field for many decades.
Eventually, I felt bored by the job (of been executive director...I was barely thirty two years old when I was the executive director of the largest mental health agency in the city where I lived) and quit and tried doing other things.
Nothing I tried worked out for me. So, I did other executive director jobs but eventually wound up quitting and returning to college teaching until I felt that teaching is too easy for me; I felt unchallenged being a college professor (I filled my time writing on assorted subjects that interested me).
Eventually, I realized that I have a destiny and fate. My normal routine is to read until I go to sleep (although there is a huge TV in the house, I seldom watch it) and get up around 5 AM, think for a while, and then go to my computer and type the thoughts that I just had in my sleep.