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| The Mystery within... |
I was exposed to some good diversity training in my former
work life with the USDA Forest Service as managers worked to comply with Civil Rights Acts of the 1960s. In addition to adding and advancing minorities and females
in the workforce, the Forest Service was also coming to terms with the
importance of biological diversity in natural resource management. Just as biological diversity is the
hallmark of a healthy ecosystem, a symbiotic relationship among diverse people can
create a vibrant workforce. I
believe the same holds true for spiritual growth since I understand
spirituality as a profound sense of belonging to one another and the earth.
In "God
Never Hurries I wrote:" I continue
my spiritual journey ecumenically seeking truth from a variety of formal belief
systems and non-religious sources. I enjoy Native American ceremony and
teachings; and attendance at a local nature center that offers a wide variety
of presenters, with discussion, under the broad title, “The Spiritual World of Nature.” I partake in a monthly ecumenical Christian service, and a catholic
discussion group called Wisdom Seekers led by a spiritually in touch priest.
I’ve learned to pray with my body through Yoga. I’ve done classes and retreats
presenting Buddhism and Hindu beliefs, and have enjoyed group Kirtan sing
fests. I’m in two book clubs and delight in finding the spiritual through many
different authors’ creativity. And I just continue to look for and find God
everywhere.
I gratefully accepted the loan of a PBS video titled "Beyond
Our Differences" featuring prominent spiritual leaders from around the
world. For me the video highlights
were: roots of good religion are
sourced in love, compassion and tolerance--quests for certainty are dangerous;
there are different approaches to the same goal—to create good human beings; everybody
and every thing is forgivable; God is found in the heart and where people come
together; surrendering to anger and hatred is violence against yourself;
non-violence creates spiritual healing; we are to help people understand each
other; authentic spirituality is working with the excluded and abandoned; all
is sacred; inalienable rights belong to everyone and everything; surrendering
to the Mystery will reveal your purpose; it is most important to be brave; a
recipe for peace is for everyone to contribute a small part; when you become
peaceful your life is different; appreciate and celebrate diversity; share each
others gifts.
What if we all shared our beliefs while honoring everyone
and everything's inalienable rights?
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