Thriving together

As I move through this extraordinary world, I have come to believe that most people genuinely desire to do good. I see a shared yearning to foster unity and grow together. Yet, paradoxically, I also see many unintentionally fostering division in the name of unity and community, undermining their very goals.

Religions, philosophies, ideologies, and groups often create divisions simply by naming and categorizing their practices. While I understand the intent behind this, what puzzles me is how these divisions multiply. Within these groups, further fragmentation occurs—sects and subsects emerge, splintering the very communities they were meant to unite.

These divisions often stem from differences in ego, interpretations of shared beliefs, and contrasting opinions. This pattern of separation is so ingrained that we see it reflected in even the most personal aspects of life, such as the rising failure of marriages. If separation has become a societal norm, how can we expect relationships to thrive?

Unity, by its nature, brings connection and harmony. Separation, conversely, breeds disconnection and isolation. The contrast between the two is evident: one uplifts while the other divides. While society makes efforts to move beyond differences, the results are often limited. Symbols like the “Coexist” bumper sticker or the melody of Bob Marley’s One Love remind us of the goal, but they also highlight how far we still have to go.

Can we truly sit with another person, hear their beliefs and opinions, and engage without judgment? Can we listen without rushing to discredit or prove them wrong? Shouldn’t this be the foundation of human interaction? Too often, conversations turn into debates—opportunities to defend our own views rather than understand those of others. But beliefs, by definition, are not absolute truths. They are perspectives shaped by culture, experience, and interpretation.

Consider sacred texts and spiritual practices: The Vedas are said to be written by ancient sages, the Gita by Vyasa, the Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu, the Torah by Moses. These are beliefs. The concepts of sin, heaven, reincarnation, or life after death are rooted in belief systems. Practices like prayer and meditation, though often supported by scientific studies for their benefits, also stem from belief.

While these beliefs and practices can enrich the human experience, their value is lost when they become tools for judgment or exclusion. The insistence on treating beliefs as incontrovertible facts often fuels conflict and diminishes our capacity to listen and understand those who differ from us.

Some people inadvertently create separation by constantly emphasizing their particular views, leaving others feeling judged or excluded. This can lead to isolation, as both parties withdraw into their own ideological bubbles.

But differences in opinion don’t have to divide us. When approached with respect and openness, they can lead to meaningful conversations, fostering growth and deeper understanding. True unity and harmony arise not from uniformity, but from mutual respect and the willingness to let go of the need to always be “right.” Conversations should be a space for expression, not confrontation—where no one feels attacked, and no one feels the need to defend.

I grew up with the belief that certain faiths and practices—Buddhism, Islam, Taoism, Paganism, and Santería—were synonymous with evil. As I’ve journeyed through life, I’ve come to respect, admire, and even embrace aspects of these traditions. I’ve discovered how similar many of them are to the roots of the Christianity I was raised in. The more I learn, the more I find myself opening my arms to others, instead of retreating into an echo chamber of like-minded individuals.

I believe the focus should be on uniting our collective consciousness, not waiting for some external update to align our beliefs. Our differences—our varied beliefs, opinions, and thoughts—are not obstacles but strengths.

Let’s cast a wide net to connect us, celebrating diversity as a source of strength rather than division. Let’s move beyond mere coexistence and strive to thrive together. Life is challenging enough on its own—why face it in isolation? Let’s join forces as one team with one mission: to build a better, more connected world.

If we know better, why don’t we do better?