Explorations in True Self
“All of the great spiritual traditions want to awaken us to the fact that we co-create the reality in which we live.”
Regarding Chapter 3, a past participant in this class noted she was impatient with Parker’s analysis of secularists and moralists, writing, “Because I am a secular humanist maybe I didn’t really see that being such has to lead one to a divided life. However, my purpose here is not to critique the book, but rather to look at the parts of myself that have been stunted or given short shift as my life has been lived so far.”
Sometimes it may be helpful to separate an author’s phrasing from our reactions to understand their message. If Parker’s “secularism” differs from your definition, find one that resonates, as this student worked to do. This allows you to engage with the core ideas without dismissing the whole concept.
Another participant stated, “We work outward to the person next to us, and move forward.” This aligns with Kind Living’s philosophy: fostering personal positivity that naturally extends to others.
This echoes Rev. Cecil Williams’ quote: “So many people say they want to save the world. Just try your block, will you?”
NEXT STEP: Assignment #4
Kind Living 