Voting for humanity

On our trip to Iceland in 2011, Tom and I came across several rural churches that struck me with their simple beauty, drawing from their magnificent natural surroundings and amplifying their purpose of worshipping God through appreciative use of His creations. I am not a Christian, nor do I subscribe to any religion. Yet, one does not have to be religious to feel a sense of quiet, spiritual awe when one experiences a house of worship. I felt the same way when I explored the mosques of Istanbul, and the Hindu and Buddhist temples in Malaysia. I feel it most strongly when I am immersed in the beauty of nature, walking amongst redwood trees older than the advent of religion, or marveling at a cloudless night sky sparkling with stars looking upon us since the beginning of time.

I grew up in Malaysia, a multicultural country where people of different races and religions live side-by-side as a norm. I went to school in a Convent, where my teachers, classmates and friends consisted of Malays, Indians and Chinese who were Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and Christians. We visited each others homes during Chinese New Year, Hari Raya (Eid), Deepavali (Diwali) and Christmas. This integrated existence continued into my early adult working life in Kuala Lumpur, the nation’s capital, where I forged strong friendships with colleagues which have lasted till today.

Convent high school class picture

Malaysian classmates

Lunch break out of the office

After-hours fun with colleagues

As Election Day here in the United States approaches, it is easy to be disheartened by the blatant discord and intolerance that has come to surface in American society. Attacks have been vicious on both sides of the political divide, everyone baring their teeth and claws to protect their personal beliefs and agenda. Lots of yelling, very little listening. I try to remind myself that America is a big country - not everyone grew up the way I did in Malaysia, amidst folks from different strokes, applying and enjoying harmonious living from the get-go.

In the end, I place my faith in basic humanity, and perhaps ironically in religion - for where people may refuse to listen to their fellow humans, perhaps the basic tenets of goodness in all human spiritual endeavors may guide us toward a more understanding place.

“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” - 1 John 4:7

“There is a reward for kindness to every living thing.” - Prophet Mohammad

“Hatred does not cease through hatred at any time. Hatred ceases through love. This is an unalterable law.” – Buddha

“I look upon all creatures equally; none are less dear to me and none more dear.- Bhagavad Gita 9.29