^The central theme in the free download audio book
Animal Kingdom is human compatibility. Why are we so challenged by simply getting along with each other? We tout our scientific and technological advancements as evidence of our evolution as a species, but we continue to destroy each other and the planet that supports our existence. The momentum to do the latter appears to be unstoppable until we collectively face a threatening crisis.
I guess the old statement about change is true. Human beings don't change unless they have to! We are too invested in our way of thinking and believing is right and others who disagree are wrong. This is true right down to the one-on-one relationship level. We all collectively support and behave this paradigm of thinking--even at our own peril. That way of thinking does not appear to be a highly evolved to me!
On the other hand, there are millions of people who work tirelessly everyday for the welfare of others and planetary conservation. Most of these individuals begin by learning to
be a difference as their rite-of-passage to making a difference. That is, they attend their own transformation
first! Then with humility and compassion, they offer assistance to others in helping them find their own solutions.
I have friend who deals with recurring migraine headaches. I suspect the source is deeply programmed in his reality. At first, I found myself being angry at him for not wanting to explore this source and resolve it. Instead, he chooses to suffer every month or so. When I got real straight that compassion is accepting how another chooses to create his or her path and being there for support, love, and/or conversation when requested, our relationship about his migraines transformed. I learned the issue he is dealing with
requires the pain he experiences as due punishment for his unresolved deed--at least in his reality.
I guess human compassion begins with simply accepting others unconditionally as a prelude to influencing their compatibility with others and themselves. The fundamental issues we must deal with are righteousness and ethnocentrism--the human tendency to believe our way of thinking and believing is superior to others. This is not a highly evolved state of consciousness!
I hope these questions are raised as you listen to
Animal Kingdom.
Love,
Bill