It is difficult at times to define what is religion. Is it about seeking dependence on God and saints? Is it about having the perfection which we cannot have on our own? Is it about clinging for a state which is not what we are in now?
The goal of going for God and saints may well be a projection of the ego in us and that can be an issue. Men will then say that their religion is better than all others when in reality each religion is as good in its own ways.
So if there is the real call of God and saints in religion, those in that religion will feel a sense of brotherhood with those in other religions. That is what should be.
Men should be able to see the goodness in others before they could really know that they have goodness as well. If they see only their own goodness and not the goodness of others, something is just not right somehow.
Rather than subjugating their self to God and saints and be part of the ultimate good, they end up projecting their self in God and saints. They think their version of God and saints is correct and those of others not. This is just not good enough and when will men learn?
Usually, they may be the ones who know more and are said to be nearer to God and saints. They see those who know less and come to a temple just to do good deeds like packing and distributing food rations as not good. They think that these do-good men are there to do good to their own name - to enhance their own reputation.
Even if they are and are insincere somewhat, so what? Aren't they on the stepping stone to more goodness. Men in path of goodness must progress in steps. Remember to reflect that the far may be near and the near far. Didn't the good lord Lord Bo Tien say so?
In a way and to be sure, by all means men should do good and feel proud that society praises them and the authority of the land will bestow them with national awards. This is hopefully a stepping stone to more than good to come in such men. Don't be hypocrite and face reality. All men will do that and expect that if they can have it. But in time they must go beyond that.
Be it for religions or for men, the issue is when they will go beyond pride and face value, and learn to be better. When will men learn? They will, won't they? Life is the greatest teacher and it is the living gospel.
Usually, they may be the ones who know more and are said to be nearer to God and saints. They see those who know less and come to a temple just to do good deeds like packing and distributing food rations as not good. They think that these do-good men are there to do good to their own name - to enhance their own reputation.
Even if they are and are insincere somewhat, so what? Aren't they on the stepping stone to more goodness. Men in path of goodness must progress in steps. Remember to reflect that the far may be near and the near far. Didn't the good lord Lord Bo Tien say so?
In a way and to be sure, by all means men should do good and feel proud that society praises them and the authority of the land will bestow them with national awards. This is hopefully a stepping stone to more than good to come in such men. Don't be hypocrite and face reality. All men will do that and expect that if they can have it. But in time they must go beyond that.
Be it for religions or for men, the issue is when they will go beyond pride and face value, and learn to be better. When will men learn? They will, won't they? Life is the greatest teacher and it is the living gospel.
