Today's Topic


 

TODAY'S TOPIC:

Three Wishes for
the New Year

by
Natalia J. Garland

Print Version

Peace on earth might move forward in 2006 if my three wishes became standards for self-awareness and self-expression. (1) I wish everybody practiced objectivity. (2) I wish everybody understood their belief system. (3) I wish everybody communicated effectively. If we could balance the self-awareness involved in (1) and (2), then we should be able to generate the self-expression involved in (3).

(1) Objectivity means looking at the facts, facing reality, analyzing and evaluating the parts and the whole. We must think clearly. Character defects such as self-centeredness, and defense mechanisms such as denial, must be replaced with an insistence on knowledge and truth. Objectivity is difficult because it is based on honesty with self.

(2) We all have some sort of belief system or explanation of the world. Our belief system provides an interpretation of and gives meaning to life. The acquisition of a belief system is a personal journey. We must compare and contrast different systems, and find any similarities in conscience that could promote unity among peace-loving peoples.

(3) Objective knowledge and personal belief must be compatible. For example, everybody accepts that the earth is round. How the earth and life-forms were created should be intelligently discussed in a pure quest for knowledge and truth. Self-expression, therefore, must be valued as an individual freedom, as well as utilized for communication with others so that we can function together in a peaceful society.

Thinking, discovering, and communicating involve risk and creativity. Each one of us needs to consider: this could be wrong. If you are certain of correctness, then it is your option to teach and role-model what you know or believe. We all have intellectual rights. You are not incorrect just because others disagree. The goal, however, should be enlightenment of others and not forceful domination.

In our democracy, we have the opportunity and an obligation to promote peace wherever possible. Let's get a fresh start on this process in 2006, starting with our own families, schools, and workplaces. Perhaps an old song could inspire the New Year:

 

Let There Be Peace on Earth
by Sy Miller and Bill Jackson

Let there be peace on earth
And let it begin with me;
Let there be peace on earth,
The peace that was meant to be.

With God as our Father
Brothers all are we,
Let me walk with my brother
In perfect harmony.

Let peace begin with me,
Let this be the moment now;
With every step I take,
Let this be my solemn vow:

To take each moment and live each moment
In peace eternally.
Let there be peace on earth
And let it begin with me.

 

Realistically, peace can be accomplished in relationships if the individuals desire it and are willing to work for it. Spiritually, a belief system that connects people within a family-like circle will sustain the desire and the work. Proceeding in a moment-by-moment fashion, self-awareness and self-expression are liberated into infinite potential. We celebrate the New Year for an official new beginning in this process and for a renewal of motivation. (Written 01/02/06: bibliography available.)

Until we meet again..............stay sane.


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Copyright 2006 Natalia J. Garland