Why
is it that the best of humanity always seems to come out of a crisis, disaster,
traumatic event?? Is this the only time we truly feel our connection to others,
especially whole groups of people we “hate”, or hate us?
It’s
been very interesting to say the least, watching the posts from Houston. One
“redneck” was going on and on about, black people, Latinos, Asians, etc. . . . all
working together, helping each other out, looking out for their “neighbors”,
and protecting their property and themselves. There was such kindness and
concern, such opening of hearts. The rich and famous, brightest stars, godlike
sports heroes all giving, becoming involved and coordinating efforts! If someone has been blessed with success,
then those blessings were meant to be shared.
Charlottesville
and Houston, which one are we? Well, I would say we’re both; we’re the only
species on the planet who understands the difference. When our normal -- self-absorbed, constantly consuming,
immediately gratified, mostly distracted and indifferent -- lives are
disrupted, we come to realize an ancient truth -- We Need Each Other! Who else is there, but others who are enduring
the same disaster and without helping one another, we die!
In
our Lives 1st Initiative at the TOV Center, we combine ancient values and wisdom
with 21st century science. This science is rewriting the book on how our brains
function. Research has shown, that humans are wired for fairness, loyalty and
compassion. Babies, toddlers and even young children live without prejudice. They
have to be taught to discriminate, hate and fear.
Years
ago, I watched a news program about a massive earthquake in Turkey. Greek
soldiers were there helping in the rescue efforts. Normally the two groups despise
one another. The reaction and coming together after 9/11, Palestinian
firefighters working with Israeli firefighters during the forest fires, the
looks on the faces of Syrian refugees being bussed and helicoptered to Israeli
hospitals for treatment. These types of behaviors reveal who we all are really
are!
The
Lives 1st Initiative views conflict, crisis and even disaster as catalysts for
tremendous growth and transformation. I teach that same idea about grief, loss
and recovery as well. When things will never be the same, they can be
different. Nothing like going through something that reminds us, that We All Are Interconnected, and We All Bleed Red. What a revelation!
I’ve
mentioned before, that in Jewish tradition, we say one blessing when we hear
good news and one when we hear bad news, because we truly don’t know the
difference.
Disasters?
If they help open our eyes, open our hearts and bring out our true nature,
which is to Protect, Preserve, Raise Functionality and Increase the Quality of
Lives -- then let’s not waste the opportunity to show Love!
Please let us know if you found this information
useful
Donations fund our work.
It’s
all about putting Lives 1st!
Rabbi
Jeffrey Leynor
