A couple of my favorite websites have cited an article postulating that our world is a hologram. While I am sure there are a lot of extreme reactions to such headlines, I’m thinking “…duh..” For years I’ve talked about how physicists’ knowledge will eventually evolve to a point in which the metaphysical claims made by spiritual gurus can be quantitatively tested and interpreted. We will then be able to corroborate mystic’s and theologian’s views on how the universe was formed and what man’s place in it truly is.

As a Gnostic, I believe in a clear delineation between the world of spirit and the world of matter. Gnostic scriptures say there is a spiritual realm that existed since before the creation of the physical universe. The spiritual is the reality, the physical is an illusion (or in this case, a hologram). While some may be unnerved by the claim of being a part of a hologram, clearly there is no conflict between this particular scientific theory and many spiritual belief systems (especially Eastern religions and Western mystical traditions). I’m sure other religious belief systems with extensive focuses on cosmology will likely welcome further study of the universe.

H/T:  Delaware Libertarian and Kids Prefer Cheese

Today is the Day of the Martyrdom of the Holy Templars, as listed on the liturgical calendar of Gnostic organizations like the Ecclesia Gnostica. It is in recognition of the anniversary of the mass arrest and confiscation of Templars throughout France. This is the 701st anniversary of that event. I’m sure there are those who view this day with significance other than Gnostics, but of course, I’m not privy to their secrets. 

Anyway, there’s not much more that I can say that hasn’t been said already by Reverend Steven Marshall in his comprehensive homily for this special day of remembrance.

I don’t comment on school, church, or workplace shootings. Unfortunately there’s so many that I wouldn’t be able to keep up. But today, I can’t help hanging my head now and thinking to myself, “Maybe I should have said something, maybe I could have done something…”

Yesterday’s shooting at the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church, however, was poignant in a number of ways. First and foremost, I’ve attended more UU services than I can mention while living in Terre Haute, Indiana and Durham, North Carolina, as well as having been to political meetings at my current local congregation, the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Raleigh (NC). While I don’t describe myself as Unitarian-Universalist any more, UUism still holds a place close to my heart. Happening geographically close to home in the Unitarian Universalist Association’s southern “Thomas Jefferson District” and having a number of friends who’ve been personally affected by this action have made the feelings associated with this incident seem nearly crushing.

Anytime something like this happens, there’s a natural tendency to think, “What do I do?” While I mean no disrespect to my UU friends — some of the most colorful, joyful, peaceful, best coffee making people you could ever hope to meet — I’m afraid the collective answer about what to do may be misguided.

When considering next steps, UUs need to follow the suggestion of Thoreau and “strike the root”. Not all of the details have been released as to the suspect’s motives, but we do know the following — he was unemployed, he was alone and had little or no social support, his basic needs of food and shelter were being taken from him, he lacked self-esteem and a feeling of success in his life. While this man could have lashed out in violence at any number of groups or individuals, it’s sadly ironic that he chose to assault an institution with such a long standing committment and fervent dedication to helping the poor and the downtrodden. Unfortunately, making a stand on issues brings both wanted and unwanted attention to those things you advocate.

Being both a theologically and politically liberal denominational body, there might be more of an emphasis on beating swords into plowshares, but that’s not the answer. Violence has never been the fault of the tool. Mankind is creative enough (and depraved enough) that if every gun was destroyed today, by tomorrow morning humans would already have a new-and-improved favorite way to kill.

The solution for UUs and their family, friends, and neighbors is found in three things that are not very far away. First, as a community of similarly-worshipping people, individuals can find solace and provide comfort to one another. Second, as a spiritual body UUs can look to the wisdom of the past to emphasize the spark in each one of us, the same spark that is extinguished when we believe the world, and not spirit, is the ultimate reality and power over us. Third, as an institution for social change, UUs must accelerate those efforts to find those who feel they are without hope and bring them into a welcoming, accepting, and loving community.

While this won’t prevent every possible episode of violence in the near future, it’ll go a long way. Even though, UUs were targeted for their beliefs, I think that in the recovery process, UUs will reflect upon their successful advocacy in the areas of human rights, religious tolerance, and social justice and understand that the good they have unleashed upon the world is far greater than any evils one man can commit.