One of the most powerful beliefs we all have in common, is the idea that someone or something is going to take care of us in life. Ironically, this belief is both true and untrue, as we’ll see. We either do things for ourselves, or we let things happen to us. This is the choice we have in front of us. In order to resolve this apparent duality, we’re going to have to understand what each creates, so that we can recognize which one will ultimately be more beneficial to us. On the one hand, we understand there is always help available. There is a support system working behind the scenes that intends to provide for us what we need. This is the faith part of human living, and we must rely upon it to a certain extent as we go about our lives. If we rely too much on it, however, we will find ourselves living in a “fantasy world” in which we become ineffective in our own living. We begin to believe there is some magical process that will help us create what we want and ultimately bring to us the success we’re looking for. In other words, the support system we have available cannot work without us. We have to “do our own doing”. Our inner guidance can only provide suggestions as to what might be the better way to go, but we must be the one to make a decision and act accordingly in order for it to work. This critical understanding is an ongoing process for all of us. In the meantime, we will unfortunately continue to give our power away to the outside and wait for that special someone, or that certain belief system, that will come in and save us without us having to do anything. The reality is that there really is no easy way to make our lives happen, just a lot of hard work. If we are willing, the support will be there. Let’s consider our process with a couple of reminders.
Our universal perception
If we believe our faith in a supreme being is enough to get by in life, we will find ourselves in a perpetual state of inaction. I cannot stress enough that we are indeed the physical part of the universe or God. That means we are the creators here. It may sound simple, but we often fail to become fully engaged in our lives because we believe someone or something else is going to do things for us. Although there is an overall plan, we have to implement the plan through our own actions. There are many of us who believe our political and religious ideologies will sustain us and give us what we need, in and of themselves. We are unfortunately misguided by the false presumption that our beliefs are true and are therefore enough to make things happen automatically. It must be said that our beliefs will not ultimately protect us and provide for us, especially if they are not based on reality. The “born again Christian” phenomenon is such an example. It is a wonderful thing to have faith in advanced spiritual beings, but these beings have no ability, nor any intent, to save us. We must do our own work and gain in self-understanding thereby. If we believe someone can take care of us, we leave ourselves vulnerable to the very things we hope to avoid. In other words, we all will encounter hardship and a certain level of suffering, no matter our particular belief system. We are indeed “in this together”.
Our relationships
We need to keep in mind, there is no human being who can provide all the answers to becoming the person we hope to be. Yes, the idea of being saved finds its way into all our relationships as well. It would be easier, would it not, if our partner could give us what we long for?! What this misperception creates is unnecessary co-dependence and eventual resentment. Again, we need to develop our best self independently, and view our relationships as a supportive influence only. There is no relationship that is perfect, nor can any relationship provide everything we need. Essentially, we’re not entirely on our own, but we’re entirely on our own! The love we are able to give will help us achieve a proper balance between these two conflicting realities. My friends, giving, not getting, is the way to go. It relieves all the pressure. If we are not getting what we want in our relationships, we either do not truly need it, or we must find a way to develop it inside.
Our institutions
Humanity itself is reaching a point of realization now, that its institutions are failing to meet its current needs. Why is this the case? Well, the idea of being taken care of or provided for has allowed us to look the other way for too long now. We assumed our political and religious institutions were going to do the right thing, but clearly, they have not. We can stop this irresponsibility on our part, by simply recognizing our ability to create necessary change. It really is up to us. If we allow certain groups of people to have their way, at the cost of the rest of us, then we have ourselves to blame. Human rights, dignity, equality, and fairness are things we can definitely manifest for ourselves, but they won’t just happen because they’re part of the plan. We make the plan happen by becoming more engaged. When the majority of us are doing this, the more quickly it will happen. There is no other way. If we allow the misconceived religious and political views of certain persons to dictate our lives, then that’s exactly how things are going to be. We can say no. We have the ability to create a reality that benefits all. I will say to the people who believe they have found some ultimate truth, if there is still suffering in the world, I’m afraid you have found no truth at all.
“We’re doing the best we can”
It is true that most of us are doing the best we can, and we know that we are the ones that need to take care of ourselves. We are also coming to the realization that it is seemingly not enough. Many of us find ourselves having a difficult time surviving, and unfortunately have the oppressive beliefs and policies of some being inflicted upon us against our will. To a certain extent, we must accept the fact that some things are beyond our control. Knowing this is temporary will help alleviate those feelings of victimization. The fact that equality is the only reality that exists in this great universe of ours, is true beyond any doubt. It’s a long haul for us to create the freedom we seek. It would clearly be helpful if certain people in our world could learn how to tell the truth and be willing to share what they have acquired for themselves. I can tell you help is on the way, but I unfortunately cannot tell you when it will arrive. Do we have a right to ask for it now? I believe we do. We take care of ourselves in every way. If things feel tough right now for you, I fully concur. Perhaps we can get through this month together!
A note to students on the path
The Masters have said that the spiritual student spends most of his or her time serving the selfish. This is a painful realization as we pursue our journey toward greater understanding. The reality is that we give so much of our time and effort and receive so little in return. The only thing I can tell you is that it’s part of the path. Humility and acceptance are cherished friends that can help us in this regard. Every time we see love and joy in the eyes of our fellow men and women, we know achievement. This is our reward. We must breathe, and we must continue.
All my love and support, be well