ALL THINGS GOLDEN ...AS A RULE.

Few dispute the idea of not doing something to someone else that you wouldn't want done to yourself. All's well and good, unless you would like to be tortured  -as an extreme example. The idea assumes that we would treat ourselves rather well. The reality is something else. Another example is someone who committed murder but then wants mercy and has a renewed interest in the anti-capital punishment campaign. Self preservation is overrated. The Golden Rule is at the same time both simple and complicated. Just like all the graphics on FB and in emails, there seldom is anything so simply truthful, humorous or thought provoking. Nuances, ramifications, and overlooked factors abound rendering them to "Well, isn't that nice." 

This rule comes close to another saying that I disturbingly first heard from a pastor who didn't mind looking at things outside of the group think mentality. "People believe what they want to believe, and don't believe what they don't want to believe." This too has been said in many different ways going all the way back to Socrates. Again, it's not absolute by any means. It's something many, if not most, would deny. Or as my brother says, if you believe the truth in the first place it's not a problem. While the sorting out process goes on, I'm comfortable with being uncomfortable. Especially if I'm responsible for my own beliefs, action, attitudes and spiritual journey and not think everyone else should be like me, that I have some kind of higher knowledge or that I can just live above all that I don't like about the world.

I would invite anyone to do what they are most comfortable with in expressing their faith, spirituality and religion. But please, please.... don't assume you're right and everyone else is wrong unless that's what makes you happy of course. I'm amazed at how many, let's say, religious types are so sensitive to criticism, mockery, disparagement, and unfair treatment that they have to kill in the name of God, or  use other enforcement tactics that they see as necessary. Also amazing are those who somehow get to determine all the hoops you must jump through in order to be considered as one of the faithful. Exactly how much faith does it take to do any of that? 

At this point, there seems to be far more bath water than baby. Essence, substance, compassion and inspiration seem to be contrary to keeping the religious institutions going at any cost. I admire anyone who can stay focused on what really matters when there is so much that doesn't. I honestly couldn't do that. But I did continue on with my spiritual journey. Sure, I miss being identified with a certain label. I miss a lot of what a faith community can do together, and not just the pot-lucks, fellowship dinners and hot-dish suppers. I also miss the coffee after The Mass has ended, even when it is tepid and watery. 

But some things can be done well. The Golden Rule is a good start. Seeing everyone you encounter, especially those who go unnoticed, as individuals with their own set of needs, troubles and loves also helps. If at all possible, acknowledge them in a way that says you are unique, there is no one like you. Or just ask if they ever watched Mr. Roger's? Recognize them as children of God, or at least a potential children, who are loved by him, regardless of how fucking irritating they they might be. There is a loneliness in this world that needs our attention. People are marginalized in many ways, and mainstreaming isn't the answer.

BONUS PIC




CREDITS: Multiple graphics from the internet and The Pot Stirrers of America Annual Convention to be held at the Nothing But Sage Radisson Resort in downtown Kirk, Colorado.