“One life is all we have and we live it as we believe in living it. But to sacrifice what you are and to live without belief, that is a fate more terrible than dying.” Joan of Arc
Reflections: To Live Without Belief... constellation of stars
When I read the Daily Post prompt on something we used to believe in, it made me think about the ways I’ve nurtured and discarded certain beliefs over the years. As a child, I believed that goodness was an inherent quality in all humans and that if you were good/nice to others, they would reciprocate. Life/experience has taught me that while man is/can be inherently good, reciprocity is not guaranteed. People have their off days, their struggles, their petty peeves and worries, and the shades we pull up to look at life vary from person to person.
What I have come to learn most is that belief in self is paramount. Love, respect, honor, praise others and wish them well, but we must do same for self, and trust that our actions will empower us and guide our path. I used to think that by believing in a person and their potential, they would rise to meet the expected belief. Some do and some don’t. Why? It has to start with Self; our sense of self worth. My belief in you won’t matter if you don’t care or don’t believe in yourself. I still believe in the potential of the human spirit but, rising to meet our potential begins with us. Our Belief = Our Reality.
“If I have the belief that I can do it, I shall surely acquire the capacity to do it even if I may not have it at the beginning.” Mahatma Gandhi
Reflections: To Live Without Belief... sunset on waikiki beach
Many of us believe that if we have faith in our own actions, the universe will rally to support us. This is true but it doesn’t mean that our lives will be without struggle. Struggles/Challenges test our character, show us who people truly are, and guide our way while teaching us wisdom. So to struggle through situations or life doesn’t mean we are not being supported. On the contrary, it means we are being fired in the oven of life; cleansed and brightened to shine. If we didn’t believe this, many would simply stop trying… What informs your belief?
“I would rather live my life as if there is a God and die to find out there isn’t, than live my life as if there isn’t and die to find out there is.” Albert Camus quotes
Reflections: To Live Without Belief... the beach in Martinique
A life of faith is important to me but that doesn’t negate your right to choose an alternative route. As a child, I was taught that only my religion mattered and others had less value. Deep in my heart I doubted it… If God created all of us in his/her image, how could that be possible? I believe that my life lessons have formed me and taught me to see the value in all faiths; part of those lessons have included profound acts of faith that guided me … but this is my story and while it might not be yours, I respect your right to your beliefs. What do you believe…? More below.
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