The path to Tranquility (spring)
21. The essence of the soul is the same
Due to differences in physique, living habits, etc., each of us has a unique sense of self. There is no doubt that we are all unique in the world. However, over-emphasizing individual uniqueness may obscure the deep commonality among human beings. We may differ in appearance, language and cultural background, but we have many similarities in emotions, needs and life experiences. For example, we can all feel the warmth of love, the uneasiness of fear, or the urgency of wanting to be understood. These common emotional experiences can transcend cultural barriers and resonate, which is even more important in today's era of multicultural integration.
Sometimes, overconfidence can make people arrogant, while lack of confidence can make people feel inferior, so we will unconsciously strengthen our uniqueness. But this sense of difference mostly comes from subjective fantasy, and self-consciousness blinds our true understanding of ourselves and others. Thinking that we are completely different from others often shows some prejudices, which may come from personal emotions or may be influenced by social culture and education. Growing up in a culture that emphasizes individualism, people tend to highlight themselves, while in a cultural environment that values the collective, people tend to seek similarities in the group. Understanding the root causes of prejudice is an important step towards sincere connection.
In order to eliminate prejudice and achieve true understanding, we must break through the boundaries of our own uniqueness. This means that we must look at life with pure consciousness, without being bound by race, gender, religion, nationality or culture, without being troubled by appearances, and without holding preconceived positions. When we explore the essence of life with our hearts, we will find that we have more in common than differences, because life originates from the same starting point. By participating in cross-cultural exchanges, we can personally feel the resonance of human nature; cultivate the ability to empathize and think from the perspective of others, learn to see things from the perspective of others, so as to transcend superficial differences and deeply understand each other's hearts.
When we realize this, we will regain peace and freedom in our hearts, as if we have returned to the unfettered state of childhood. We may wonder: How did the self come about? Although it will take time to find a clear answer, we will gradually find that the self is just the shell of the soul. This shell is made up of personal experiences, beliefs and values, so it looks very different. However, if we can let go of our attachments and go deep into the soul, we will understand that its essence is the pursuit of love, growth and eternal existence. Artists express themselves through creation, and teachers practice ideas through teaching, but deep down they all want to leave their own mark and reflect the commonality of the soul.
The core of the soul is the consciousness of the true self. Although the outer shells are different, the true self is closely connected, originating from the overall consciousness of the universe, and has unlimited growth potential and desire. When the true self awakens, it will affect our behavior and way of existence from the inside out, resonate with others, lead each other to break through the outer shell, and achieve a deep connection.
We need to awaken our true self through practice. For example, we can observe ourselves quietly, eliminating the interference of emotions and habits; record our feelings and thoughts, explore our real needs; communicate with people from different backgrounds, listen to their stories, and resonate with them. These methods can help us touch the depths of our souls, feel deep stability and peace, and more easily establish harmonious interpersonal relationships.
Constructing the future of the universe is the common mission of the soul, but only souls that are freely connected can release tremendous energy. When we understand the consistency of the soul's essence, we can perceive the possibility of connecting with each other and inspire the courage to act. Throughout history, peace movements and human rights initiatives have all originated from people uniting in the resonance of faith to change the world. This is the power inspired by soul connection.
Of course, we should still respect individual uniqueness. Everyone has different experiences and situations, and different ways to free their souls: some people seek an outlet in art, while others seek meaning in scientific exploration. Understanding this, we will no longer rush to judge, but work together to create a freer and more open spiritual environment. Schools encourage students to think independently and express themselves bravely, while learning to respect and listen to other people's views; communities hold cultural activities or dialogue forums to allow different people to share their stories and cultivate compassion and empathy. These practices help us find common ground on the basis of respecting differences.
To achieve a free and open spiritual environment, education and policy play a key role. But the premise is that we must first recognize that the essence of every soul is the same. Only on this basis can education and social systems truly develop so that everyone can be accepted and understood. When communication between each other deepens, souls can shed their shells and move closer, connect, and merge in resonance.
20. Taking off the shell of the soul
22. Let the flowers of emotion bear the fruits of wisdom
