A Study in Contradiction
We are not automatons. We are human beings. Which, makes us, well, human! And burdens us, with all that being human, entails. Whatever it is we decide we want, a good woman, a loving man, a new car, a cold Pepsi, a stiff shot of tequila, nothing will satisfy our desire until we get what we want. Until, something else, does!
We are as resolute as the day is long; and just as fickle. Liars, and saints. A finely crafted Cubano, and a Stogie crafted with inferior leaves. Helpful and hurtful. A study, in contradiction.
But what can we do if we want to change the way we are? To whom can we appeal? Our Pastor? Priest? Rabbi? What can they do that we cannot? What authority do they have to affect change within us that we do not?
Perhaps we can appeal to the doctrines of our religion, study and apply the scriptures in its holy books, pray and petition to its concept of God. But can these affect change? Can these change the way we are? The truth is they cannot. Nor can we!
Duality of Nature
We are each capable of effecting great help, and of causing great harm. Whether motivated by action or inaction, altruism or selfishness, we are all dual of nature and agents of our intent. We can affect our behavior, but we cannot change what makes us what we are!
The duality of our nature motivates us toward both altruism and selfishness. However, neither Good nor Evil dominates our character. They are the balance within it.
No matter what our struggle, lust; envy; anger; greed; jealousy; pride; the inability to cope; or whether to live another day; decision and choice, fill every moment of our lives. And within every decision and choice, is its duality. Its potential, to produce good or bad results.
What is essential to understand, is that we do not control the inherent duality of the decisions and choices we make. Ours is only the conscious act of making them. The outcome of the actions we take, may or may not be, our intended result.
Behavior
Although we cannot change the duality of our nature, we can control the nature of our behavior. Whether we are kind, or cruel, is a decision we make.
If a belief is consistent in producing clear-minded and responsible people; who have concern for the well-being of people outside of their faith, society, and the environment, what does it matter if others think the belief is absurd?
Humanity’s beliefs, concerns, and ideas are diverse; and not confined to one line of thought, one point of view, or the tenets of one faith. From the most strident atheist to the most devout believer, we each follow our own beliefs and philosophies.
We each live our lives in the way we think is best for us. Contrary to those who believe otherwise, even among members of the same religion, personal interpretations of its doctrines abound! It is not our beliefs that matter, but the behaviors, our beliefs produce!