Monday, August 17, 2009

Compass

I have been looking for the ideal moral compass. A faith that feels right, comfy, cozy, easy. The Buddhist teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh make the most sense to me; live mindfully, breathe deep, listen. Karma is a good rule of thumb and speaks to the Christian bible verse, "due unto others as you would have them due unto you."

When I was young I imagined all faiths spinning around and down a funnel, all neatly poured in to the same jar; like lemon juice and sugar water combining to make the perfect glass of lemonade. Now as an adult (and I use that term loosely) I cling to a similar analogy, that all faiths are lakes, streams, and rivers flowing into the same ocean - god, goddess, universe.

As I search for my truth I pray that all religions / spiritual practices really do lead to the same light and knowledge. If people are happy and no one is being harmed let us accept and love each other regardless of our faith. Why not use the journey of others as awesome and fascinating bits of information to enlighten our own lives? Why not sit cross legged on the floor in front of believers from all walks of life (like a child listening to a fairytale) and listen to them speak of their faith and where it has taken them?

You know what, the moral compass I am seeking is already installed in my psyche! Be nice. Follow your bliss. Live your life and be happy. Laugh. Ask. Listen. Study. I guess fine tuning the listening part of my compass couldn't hurt.

Wow, sometimes I forget how cathartic writing can be.