Bob asked Phil if he thought he was smarter than other people because he claimed he was a Unitarian Universalist.
“Without doubt, “ replied Phil. “UUs have the seven principles and they aren’t for dumb people.”
“Not for dumb people,” asked Bob?
“Right, dumb people aren’t smart enough to understand the higher values which the principles entail. They are still unaware and operate out of a place of self centeredness and fear. It’s like they are stumbling around in the dark,” said Phil.
“Isn’t that view condescending and patronizing,” asked Bob?
“No, It’s the truth meaning that it’s an accurate observation that can be tested,” replied Phil.
“How?”
“Simple. Just ask people if they believe in hell and a God who would send a sinner there. Most people would say, ‘yes” and such a belief is counterproductive and antithetical to the magnificence of human potential and the benevolence of a loving creator which has given us Life. Most people live in fear and shame of being defective and inadequate in some way and it being only a matter of time until their fatal flaw is discovered and they are punished.”
“UUs don’t feel that way too, “ asked Bob?
“Of course not,” said Phil, “not if they’re real UUs.
“Sounds like quite a religion,” said Bob.
“Oh it is,” said Phil. “As I said, ‘UUs are smarter than everyone else.’ UUs are God’s messengers who will save the world.”
“Okay,” said Bob, ‘Maybe I’ll look more into it.”
“Good,” said Phil. “What you will find is that while UUs know they are smarter than other people, they are very compassionate and truly want other people to join them in their joy. You see, UUs are not only smarter than other people, they are happier too.”
“Really?” asked Bob.
“Oh yes,” said Phil, “by their happiness you will know them.”
Are UUs happier and more intelligent because they recognize, acknowledge, and celebrate the interdependent web of all existence of which they are a part? Recognizing this diminishes the fear of death as we become aware that the energy that animates us is immortal. All we have to surrender to enjoy this peace is our ego. So hard for so many but for those on the spiritual path of Unitarian Universalism it is assumed as a necessary step. Most people are not there. We are blessed to have such a faith given to us.
ReplyDeleteSurrinda:
DeleteDo you think most UUs would say that the 7th principle is of much value? From what you have written it would seem that you do although I don't want to put words in you mouth. If you do think the 7th principle has a high degree of value to UUs how do you see it being manifested in their communities and lives?
Statius said around 90 AC, "Fear first made gods in the world." Harry Hollywood said in 2016 with the election of Donald R. Trump, that fear also makes despots to whom the citizens give their power wishing for protection of the strong man.
ReplyDeleteUUs are the missionaries of God to show the world a better way. Until UUs take their role seriously in the world, the world will continue to suffer longer than it would otherwise. UUs could speed up the passage of time to the Atonement if they would become more aware of their special role and act accordingly. I admire Phil and wish there were more people like himself.
ReplyDelete