The Better World Handbook: Small Changes That Make A Big Difference by Ellis Jones Brett Johnson

Author:Ellis Jones, Brett Johnson
Format: epub
Tags: BUS099000
ISBN: 9781550923650
Publisher: Perseus Books, LLC
Published: 2007-01-31T16:00:00+00:00

FAITH IN ACTION

While it’s easy to fall into the trap of self-absorbed spirituality, true spiritual practice must move beyond feeding our own egos, casting judgment and making ourselves feel superior. “Navel gazing” can lead us to put our own lives at the center of the universe. Our religious communities should never be merely country clubs where we show off our well-behaved and well-dressed children. A truly engaged spirituality engages our inner lives as well as the needs of others across the globe. Rather than being an escape from the world, spirituality can be an avenue to reengage. Truly meaningful spiritual discovery combines both self-awareness and social transformation.

All of the world’s major religions call upon their followers to put their faith into action, compelling people to put their lives on the line against tyranny and injustice, help the sick, and shelter the homeless. Faith in peace, kindness, justice and compassion led abolitionists to fight against slavery, Thich Nhat Hanh to promote “engaged Buddhism” in opposition to the Vietnam War, Mother Teresa to work among India’s poor, Shirin Ebadi to fight for women and children’s rights in Iran, and Archbishop Oscar Romero to stand up to death squads in El Salvador.

Putting one’s faith into action means embracing the principle of agape (ah-GAH-pay). Agape is an abundant, overflowing love for all of humanity — not just for our loved ones but for strangers, neighbors, enemies, those of different ethnic groups and nations. It is a form of love that expects nothing in return. It leads to compassionate action not because the recipient “deserves” it but because they are in need.

ACTION: Live your life as a prayer

How would your life change if you lived your life as a prayer? Living out spiritual faith is difficult, particularly with all of the distractions modern society offers. Living your life as a prayer means asking how your faith could influence everyday decisions, big or small, as you set a loving, peaceful, and powerful example for others. It is putting your spiritual hopes and desires for a better world into action, in both simple and profound ways. Throughout the book, we explore ways to integrate different aspects of our life based upon our fundamental values. The same principle applies to spirituality. Ask yourself how you can live out love, peace, forgiveness, mercy, and justice on a daily basis, thus living and being your spirituality. Applying faith to daily decisions can be a powerful way to both change the world and live a spiritual life. Consider these questions:

• How might your faith guide you in purchasing a car? Buying a home? Choosing a bank? Investing your savings?

• How could your faith inform your dinner choices?

• How might your religion encourage you to share your resources?

• What about how you get to work? The type of work you choose?

• Which teachings could you apply to your daily interactions with people?

• If you like, you can view every action in this book as an opportunity to live your life as a prayer.

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