Truth Be Told

If we devote our faith to a single philosophy; limiting “truth” to a person, book, or organization; then our ability to discern the truth becomes distorted; and influenced by the issues of the human ego. Such things as power and control, superiority, competition, and domination become the sources of our faith, belief, and truth. These are mere masks disguising our human weakness, and our attempts to feel stronger at the expense of others. Is this truth?

If we devote our lives solely to the teachings of an individual, are they alive? Do we know them? Have we shared enough time with them to really understand? Or are we basing our faith in them on the words of various people across millennia most of whom have also never met them; people who attack and contradict each other in the name of their deity? Is this truth?

When a book becomes the singular source of our “truth,” do we know anything about the authors? If the book is believed to be a divine source, deriving from the life and teachings of a deity; did the deity write it; or was it written by numerous others based on visions, inspired realizations, and political views? If so, then why are things like visions and inspired realizations identified as evil by those who base their beliefs upon them? Why are all opposing political views attacked, discredited, and eschewed? Is this truth?

If an organization determines our “truth,” what principles is it really reflecting? If things are so black and white, unequivocally clear, and absolute; then why do most organizations within even the same religion or sect vary so greatly? Why do they devote so much of their time and energy judging people, attacking competitors, and controlling constituents? What is this organization anyway? What does it really represent? Does it further the love, light, and truth of its deity; or does it promote the power and control desires of its human leaders through the use of scare tactics, manipulation, and empty promises? Is this Truth?

Let’s take Jesus for example. When walking the earth, was Jesus a Christian? Was he Jewish? What would he say if you asked him? Did Jesus judge and control his followers; or did he love and accept them unconditionally? Did he attack and discredit those with differing views, or did he accept and welcome them into his life? Was his philosophy one of selfish greed, power and control, and harsh judgment; or was it supremely selfless, humble, and openly accepting? Did Jesus spend his life trying to make a name for himself, create a financial empire, and increase the congretational numbers; or did he devote himself to healing the sick and teaching people how to live a higher truth? Did he treat the beautiful, wealthy, and talented among his followers preferentially; or did he use criminals, prostitutes, and homeless people in his ministry; showing all the same levels of respect, love, and acceptance?

I believe there is value in all truth, and that our mission in life is to grow spiritually and help others do the same. For me, this means awakening to a higher consciousness by developing greater awareness of truth, access to its light, and an ability to externally manifest its Supreme Universal Consciousness through the things we think, say, and do. To the degree to which a religion, philosophical tradition, or political system contributes to this process; it is valuable. Similarly, inasmuch as it distracts from, inhibits, or prevents our true development; it is not. In his later years, Gandhi said “I have grown to realize that the only real god is truth.” Find the truth, hold on to it, and know that this is your right and responsibility. Others can make suggestions, point you in a direction, or serve as a guide; but it is ultimately up to you to see and know. Light is awareness of truth. Walk in the light, live in the love, thirst for the truth.

Photo Credit: Creation’s Journey to Life