Einstein

This writing had such simple yet profound truth.

"A human being is part of the whole that we call the universe, a part limited in time and space. He experiences himself, his thoughts and feelings, as something separated from the rest --- a kind of optical illusion of his consciousness. This illusion is a prison for us, restricting us to our personal desires and to affection for only the few people nearest us. Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living beings and all of nature."

Wow, what an insightful and polite way of saying, "Hey man, it's not all about you (or what you believe)." I love how Einstein expressed the concept of people needing to get outside themselves, and it's even for their own good. It seems contradictory, since it makes sense to be thinking about oneself, our thoughts, feelings and personal desires. But those can be consuming and cut us off from people and life going on around us. Sometimes this can happen subtly, and under the guise of seemingly good things. In my personal experience, I was involved in a very conservative church, until I went through a divorce. I felt divorce was bad, so I tried to avoid it; but in the end it was the best outcome of the available options. Before the divorce, I was so wrapped up in the ultra conservative church and lifestyle, that although I meant well and was trying to do the right thing; I am sure I missed many opportunities to love other people who didn't fit our church 'profile.' Then, when I went through the divorce, the people from outside my church 'profile' were some of the most loving people I met! How much of life did I miss out on before that, because I couldn't see passed my 'prison?!' I am so glad to be free! Do I still love God? Yes. Do I still go to church? Yes, but not a really conservative one. :) Ultimately, I thank God for freeing me and allowing me to see how great all kinds of people are. He allowed me the privilege of widening my "circle of compassion to embrace all living beings and all of nature." I never want to live in a short-sighted box again! Personally, I think there is too much great living to do outside the box.