a.k.a. Religious Beliefs…. With over 7 billion people on our tiny blue planet submerged in the vast universe, practicing over 4300 known beliefs – it should not be a surprise that we are struggling to co-exist. We all have to go from Point-A (where we are) to Point-B (somewhere…. that no one knows of). Around 1.1 billion of us do not even believe that Point-B even exists, or there is a purpose to our existence.
There are infinite ways to connect any 2 points….. well we know of 4300 ways at least, for our Points A and B. And every “path collective” believes that theirs, and only their path to Point-B is the correct path AND – everyone else is on the wrong path.
The core value systems (fundamental rights and wrongs), for most of the major paths followed by 90% of us are the same. So why do people still believe that the paths are different? Rather than focus on our common values/beliefs, we have always been diverted to the differences between the paths. This is ingrained in our psyche and how we think. The bulk of our differences are social customs and traditions driven — which has very little to do with traversing our life path from A-to-B.
We are far more alike, than we may want to accept…. So, let us all start focusing on what binds us rather than separates us.
What do you think?
Life experiences to share.... 
While different belief systems may have many many commonalities, problems arise when ( perhaps a minority within ) one belief-system calls for the annihilation of those who do not subscribe to that system. This breaks the live-and-let-live principle, which has allowed so many disparate systems to coexist without major incidences. Perhaps it is incumbent upon the silent majority within such a system to rise up and drown out ( or perhaps drive out ) the forces calling for the annihilation of non-conformists.
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So true… we should focus on our common beliefs/values. But at the same time also understand the differences between us so that we develop a tolerance and respect for the other. I belong to such an inter-faith organization where we develop this relationship and understanding via reading books and sharing our personal experiences.
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Each belief system is a way of living a life and generally it teaches how to lead a good life. And this will take us to Point B which we all want to. But if you do not follow those beliefs, it is not necessarily bad. And tolerance of each others belief and way of living will lead to everyone leading a good life and therefore to the desired Point B. Eventually everyone will reach Point B and ultimately our Creator will decide which side of Point B you belong.
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True! So long as one is a good human, practices ones own belief within one’s own four walls without imposing on others, and is tolerant to others’ belief system with due respect – the world at large would be a far peaceful place! Point B would definitely be attained !
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I am one of the 1.1 billion who is still wondering if there is a point B.
But what really resonated with me is “Rather than focus on our common values/beliefs, we have always been diverted to the differences between the paths. This is ingrained in our psyche and how we think. ”
So I speak to the silent masses – lets try an “arab spring” if u will, within our own ‘religion/culture’ to speak up against others that try to divide.
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