We are connected to each other in countless ways. Apart from the obvious physical and emotional links between people, we all come from the same Source. The Life Force that flows through me also flows through you. We are made of the same ‘stuff’, breathe the same air and drink the same water. The differences between us are trivial in the wider scheme of things.

The most important principle behind relationships from the spiritual point of view is therefore: I am a spiritual being sustained by Creative Intelligence – and so is everyone else. We are all of equal worth. Only when we recognise the spirituality in others can we truly recognise it in ourselves.As our consciousness expands, so does our appreciation of our interconnectedness. We see that relationships have a spiritual purpose. They are our greatest teachers and vehicles for growth. With a raised consciousness, we also learn to conduct our relationships better, so they become more fulfilling and more effective.

160 We Are Interdependent

We are interdependent, although many of us behave as if it were not so.

Imagine a large oak tree. At the top, branches spread forth in all directions, each covered with leaves. At the summit, the leaves appear separate, but as we lower our gaze, we see that they are connected to branches which merge into a thick trunk which disappears into the ground. Out of sight, the trunk connects to roots which spread out and draw water and nutrients from the ground.

Like those leaves, we appear physically separate, but draw energy from the same invisible Source. If one leaf dies, the whole tree is diminished. Perhaps this is why people come together to help the victims of natural disasters such as famines, earthquakes, floods and volcanic eruptions even though there is no visible connection between them and no logical reason why they should.

161 We Continually Transfer Energy To Each Other

We constantly give and receive energy from each other. If we don’t, we stagnate and die. Anything that blocks the flow of life-giving energy between us harms everyone concerned.

We give and receive energy in many ways, such as:

• Subconsciously – through our auras. Just being in the presence of an inspiring individual can energise.
• Our thoughts have energy which carries to others.
• Visually – even a glance has energy.

• Auditorally – contrast the effect of a cruel remark with an admiring comment.
• Kinesthetically – a gentle touch can work wonders.

 

When we are with others, we continually pick up their energy, as they do ours. We also have the capacity to sense others’ energy fields at a distance. Have you ever had a feeling that all is not well with someone you know who is far away? If so, you were probably picking up their energy field.

162 Namaste

Namaste (na-mast-ay) is a Sanskrit greeting which means, ‘I recognise and honour the spiritual being in you.’ Namaste reminds us:

• that we are all one and there is no separation;
• to look for the beauty in everyone we meet and overlook the shortcomings of their mortal personality;
• to approach everyone with an attitude of love and acceptance.

 

Treat everyone you meet with automatic acceptance and you’ll find it easier to get on with them on a friendly basis.

163 Deep Down, We Are Beings Of Peace

Deep down, at our spiritual core, the Higher Self wants to be at peace. Even those whom you dislike and who dislike you, who have hurt, bad-mouthed and cheated on you, are, like yourself, in essence beings of peace.

‘What about murderers, rapists, drug dealers and child abusers?’ you may ask. How can they be beings of peace? Simple: their spiritual essence is obscured by their ego and its insecurities. Like everyone, they do what they know according to their learning and experiences, and like everyone, when they know better, they change.