The path to Tranquility (spring)
3. Personal consciousness determines collective wisdom
Consciousness is our perception and understanding of ourselves and our
surroundings. The level of individual consciousness determines the level of
collective wisdom. The level of consciousness reflects our level of sobriety,
and also represents our understanding of the meaning of existence
and our ability to master our own interests. When facing conflict, awareness
allows us to achieve the best outcome.
The individual is a part of the collective and the interests of the two are usually aligned, but sometimes conflict. When conflict arises, our reactions and actions should follow the consciousness. Conscious action is the least costly, because we will consider our own true interests.
We form a collective to obtain greater benefits for individuals, so the requirements of the collective must remain balanced with the individual's needs. If a collective in turn harms the interests of individuals, then individuals will tend to leave the collective. Even if they do not leave physically, they will become psychologically alienated.
However, we are also forced to live according to the norms of the collective. Not only are we at the mercy of the collective, our wishes are ignored. No matter how distorted our lives are, we must meet the requirements of a collective, otherwise we will not be regarded as normal people.
In a collective, the serious problem faced by individuals is the widening gap between their own needs and the collective's demands. When the collective safeguards individual interests, everyone will feel at ease and proud. But when a collective has new demands and ignores individual interests, everyone will be filled with conflicts, leading to many wrong decisions.
In fact, the individual is the foundation of the collective and the key to ensuring the stable development of the collective. Only those individuals with sufficient consciousness can connect to form a strong core of consciousness. A network composed of independent and stable individuals can be a collective with a soul. Otherwise, what is formed can only be an unconscious organization that will ultimately harm the interests of each member.
A person can feel uneasy, depressed, or cheerful, and these emotions reflect their state of awareness. A harmonious collective must continually understand each person's situation, listen to their voices, and support their personal consciousness development. This is the essence of collective governance. If everyone thinks clearly and use critical thinking to filter information, then the collective they form is a collective full of wisdom.
We need to view the relationship between individuals and collective as one of mutual support. This relationship must be based on equality and respect, and also include a reasonable goal and action guide. When everyone is working towards a common goal, understanding each other and achieving effective cooperation, our collective will become invincible.
2. Discovering something new every day
4. Loving each other is the common goal of life
