Here we are on the eve of Thanksgiving, traditionally a day set aside to share gratitude for the blessings in our lives. 2015 is another year where we honestly have to ask ourselves if the blessings might just be outweighed by world and national events. We see and hear religion pitted against religion, people fighting against people; I get it. As you practice whatever spiritual tradition you have I would like to share some research I did about how we are connected in more ways than we are separated no matter how it seems.
You have heard of the Golden Rule; Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Are you aware that virtually every major religion has a variation on exactly the same theme? Here are just a few;
Buddhism: Hurt not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful.
Hinduism: One should not behave towards others in a way which is disagreeable to oneself.
Islam: None of you believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself.
Judaism: And what you hate, do not do to any one.
Native American Spirituality: Do not wrong or hate your neighbor, for it is not he who you wrong but yourself.
Shinto: The heart of the person before you is a mirror. See there your own form.
Wicca: Do what ever you will as long as it harms nobody, including yourself.
Seneca: Treat your inferiors as you would be treated by your superiors.
The list goes on and on. Throughout our experience on this planet people have been drawn to the same conclusion; what we do to others we do to ourselves. There is no escaping this rule.
As you share your blessings with friends and families on Thanksgiving, take a moment and realize everyone on this planet is a friend and a member of our family. Happy Thanksgiving.
