Tonight James and I sat at home with some candles burning, a few pots of herbal tea shared between us and together we watched some interviews and documentaries with/of the Dalai Lama.
I love listening to him speak.
I love how he always says to keep religion out of it to simply listen to the lessons he teaches.
He is a wise and wonderful man.
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| http://joe-perez.com/blog/2012/02/dalai-lama-tops-list-of-the-100-most-powerful-spiritual-people-in-the-world/ |
Those of you who know me, know that I am not in the slightest was swayed by religion. I don't dislike religion. In fact, I think that if faith brings solace and happiness then it is a wonderful thing and those who receive this solace and happiness are truly blessed.
I asked my friend Tif to describe her religion (Mormonism) to me in one sentence. It was a tough challenge but she did it.
She said
It teaches of Christ's works and life, his atonement, and our salvation, it teaches that charity is the pure love of Christ and our service to our fellow men is our way to be most like Him.
I loved that answer.
Simply because charity towards others was one of the first things that came into her mind.
That's the thing
if you read the basic values of every religion there is something that can be learnt and valued.
Take the religious element from it and the principle is still worthy advice
I will share with you some of my favourite ideas
Zoroastrianism teaches that we should think good thoughts, say good words and do good deeds.
I think that is very wise.
Mormonism teaches us to value our families, value our bodies and value each other.
Again, nothing to be sniffed at.
Catholicism and Protestantism teach very similar lessons, it is the minor details that differ and they spread the idea of loving others as we wish to be loved. Makes sense doesn't it!
Hinduism teaches that we should live a life of purity and simplicity with a sense of justice. Sounds good.
Islam focuses on good deeds for the good on mankind. No issues there!
Taoism tends to emphasize naturalness, spontaneity, simplicity and detachment from desires. I rather like that philosophy.
Janism promotes a life on non-violence to all living creatures and beings. I love that teaching also.
Buddism teaches serenity and calmness with a clear mind. Wonderful!
I want to share some of the Dalai Lama's words but to be fair I shall just share some quotes I enjoy about religion
This is my simple religion. There is no need for temples; no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness.
Just as a candle cannot burn without fire, men cannot live without a spiritual life.
Morality is of the highest importance - but for us, not for God.
If I had to choose a religion, the sun as the universal giver of life would be my god.
We are punished by our sins, not for them.
There seems to be a terrible misunderstanding on the part of a great many people to the effect that when you cease to believe you may cease to behave.
I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.
Personally, I will go back to that lovely little mantra,
Good thoughts, good words, good deeds.
"Our Heavenly Father loves us and wants us to return to live with him, which is made possible through the atonement of his son Jesus Christ." - Joe Hafen
ReplyDeleteps. Lu, I like how open minded and accepting you are. You're one of my very favorite people.