Learn To Set Goals Blog

It's coming to the time of year when we start reflecting on what's important to us.  One of those things for me is freedom of speech.  I hate the term “Happy Holidays”.  I celebrate Christmas.  If you don't that's fine.  You can greet me however you want.  But be proud of what you are and what you celebrate.  I am basically a Christian at heart, but have known those of many different backgrounds.  And the key to getting along and enjoying everyone's presence is to realize that they are different.  You don't have to like everything about everyone in your life, but realize that those who are sincere in their beliefs don't threaten you.  If it's something you can't reconsile in your head then just don't be friends with them, but still treat them with respect.  

Our beliefs are exactly that, beliefs.  They aren't facts.  They are what we think and feel is right.  Do we have proof?  Sometimes we think we do, but that proof is rarely universally accepted.  Just acknowledge that.  And also accept that maybe we can learn from people of different backgrounds, and maybe they can learn from us.  

And just because something is different doesn't make it right or wrong.  A Christian, a Muslism, a Jew, a Buddist, a Taoist, a Hindu, an Agnostic, and an Atheist can all get along fine, so long as they all mutually respect each other and learn how to love each other.  Are there times when this won't work?  Of course.  If one side shows complete lack of respect for another, it is the other's right as a human being to defend themselves, but people must be reasonable.  When there is at least one side that isn't, that is where conflict and war come in.  And what ever your beliefs on war, I believe that there are times that it is justified.  But also out of times of conflict and war can come great things.  Look at how Japan and Germany excelled after World War II.  Look how the Cold War between the U.S. and the U.S.S.R. brought about a dramatic change in Eastern Europe in a way that a regular armed conflict almost certainly couldn't.

There will always be differences of opinions between peoples.  There will always be new things and ways of doing things that people try.  Just try to remember the basis of almost all religions is love and respect for one another.  You have a right to your beliefs, and others have a right to theirs.  So long as people take responsiblity for their beliefs and actions the world will continue to improve.

Take action.

Act with respect.

Keep going Upwards and Onwards.

Merry Christmas!

Nick