Where the path leads. There are those of us that want to know and others just keep walking along. I do believe for most of us there comes a time when we ask that question. Where does the path lead ? This path that we call life. Does it have meaning to others or is it solely mine ? The answer to that question is what forms our character, don't you think ? I mean should my goal be to please others, or just please myself ? In determining that answer lies the conflict of life. Good versus evil. The answer would seem to depend upon several factors but the most important one would have to be, is there a reward at the end ? Well that is at the crux of religion is it not ? The even greater question is,should it matter ? This promise of a reward, should it be the driving factor for religious belief ? I don't believe that is the intent of Biblical lessons. Those lessons instruct us on how to lead a moral and just life. The promise is an enticement. And as with most enticements it's virtues are described in detail. That is not to say the promise will not be fulfilled, only that our understanding of that promise is incomplete. I do believe the mind of man is limited in it's capacity to comprehend the mysteries of creation. It also doesn't mean we should not strive for that promise. Call it circular reasoning if you will, but it does seem logical to me.
The truth of the matter is we all need to feel happy and fulfilled. That is what man wants. The method one chooses to obtain that goal is what defines our actions. Even when those actions are not seen by others they define us. It is only in our own hearts and minds that the complete truth is known. With that realization comes the quest for the answers. Just what truly pleases you ? Are those desires selfish ? If the desire for a life everlasting is your goal, is that in and of itself a selfish goal ? Doing for others to obtain something for ourselves seems a bit contradictory. We are taught however, that doing unto others as we would have others do unto us is the key, the golden rule. So if everyone where to be striving for this eternal life, they would, of necessity be committing a selfish act. This act of caring for our fellow man in accordance with our own desires. See my point ?
It would seem to me all mankind is on the same path. If that is so, are we not all traveling to the same destination ? There are indeed many roads, and each one unique, but the end is always the same. It would seem reasonable to help our fellow travelers. Those travelers may be of benefit to us. Some have gone before us and there are some to follow. No man walks alone. We may become separated from the crowd, that is true. For some this separation causes despair and for others it provides solace. It makes little difference the path is the same.
This little discussion is presented for your contemplation. It was intended as a philosophical topic not a religious one. Philosophy is the study of general and fundamental problems faced by man. Religion is defined as an organized collection of beliefs. Generally religion involves a God or a collection of Gods but Atheism is also a religion. I see no reason Philosophy and Religion can not co-exist. The thinking man can be religious, that is not a contradiction to belief. There are many things that can not be proved but we know to be truth. Empirical evidence abounds. Where the path leads ? An answer we can not know in this life, on this path. We must begin the second voyage ( or possibly many more ) to know that. What I mean to say is, you won't know till you get there. Are you prepared ? Another question, what preparation is necessary ? Asking questions is not a sign of doubt, but an indication of wisdom.
The truth of the matter is we all need to feel happy and fulfilled. That is what man wants. The method one chooses to obtain that goal is what defines our actions. Even when those actions are not seen by others they define us. It is only in our own hearts and minds that the complete truth is known. With that realization comes the quest for the answers. Just what truly pleases you ? Are those desires selfish ? If the desire for a life everlasting is your goal, is that in and of itself a selfish goal ? Doing for others to obtain something for ourselves seems a bit contradictory. We are taught however, that doing unto others as we would have others do unto us is the key, the golden rule. So if everyone where to be striving for this eternal life, they would, of necessity be committing a selfish act. This act of caring for our fellow man in accordance with our own desires. See my point ?
It would seem to me all mankind is on the same path. If that is so, are we not all traveling to the same destination ? There are indeed many roads, and each one unique, but the end is always the same. It would seem reasonable to help our fellow travelers. Those travelers may be of benefit to us. Some have gone before us and there are some to follow. No man walks alone. We may become separated from the crowd, that is true. For some this separation causes despair and for others it provides solace. It makes little difference the path is the same.
This little discussion is presented for your contemplation. It was intended as a philosophical topic not a religious one. Philosophy is the study of general and fundamental problems faced by man. Religion is defined as an organized collection of beliefs. Generally religion involves a God or a collection of Gods but Atheism is also a religion. I see no reason Philosophy and Religion can not co-exist. The thinking man can be religious, that is not a contradiction to belief. There are many things that can not be proved but we know to be truth. Empirical evidence abounds. Where the path leads ? An answer we can not know in this life, on this path. We must begin the second voyage ( or possibly many more ) to know that. What I mean to say is, you won't know till you get there. Are you prepared ? Another question, what preparation is necessary ? Asking questions is not a sign of doubt, but an indication of wisdom.
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