The drive for transcendence Our beliefs can inspire acts of love for individuals we know and others we may never meet. (As explained elsewhere in the website, we have the power to effect millions of lives.) But, being human, our potential for good is not automatic. Dangers of religion Yet, since ancient times, religious people have often taken the lead - and given their lives - to defend freedom and justice. Religious people are prominent in the civil rights movement, helping the homeless and addressing world hunger. Organized religion Joining a group does not necessarily mean we'll carry out its ideals. People can be intolerant, hypocritical, shallow, hidebound and judgmental. We can be apathetic about important issues or overzealous to impose our beliefs on others. Many congregations work hard to avoid these all-too-human pitfalls. They are enthusiastic seekers of truth, offering warm fellowship and effective opportunities to help others. Fellowship can provide
emotional support and encouragement for the greater good. Members of religious
congregations tend to be much more charitable than unaffiliated individuals. At Hearts & Minds, we do not endorse a particular religion or a specific political agenda. I personally believe that even atheists, working for social justice, can be closer to God than apathetic religious people. Constructive cooperation BILL BLACKMAN is founder and president of
Hearts and Minds. "The Bible's ideals of social justice are a major
inspiration," he says. However, he does not agree with everything some Bible-quoting
people do (or everything he does, either (:-): "It's easier to criticize others than
change ourselves," he admits.
Copyrights: Entire website © 1997 - 2007 by Hearts and Minds Network, Inc., Buddhist statue photo © 2004 and article © 1997 both by Bill Blackman, Hindu temple painting © 2006 by Man Gurung. This web page - http://www.heartsandminds.org/ideas/spirit.htm - latest revision Aug 2, 2006 |
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Most
religions emphasize helping others. Buddha said this is far more important than trying to get to heaven.