The concept of ‘holiness’ can be a slippery slope. On one hand, it inspires us to strive for moral excellence, to live lives of compassion and righteousness. On the other, it can quickly morph into judgementalism, self-righteousness, and a sense of superiority over others. So, how do we embrace the positive aspects of holiness without falling into the trap of being ‘too holy’?
The Beauty of Holiness:
Holiness, at its core, is about aligning ourselves with something greater than ourselves. It’s about recognising the sacred in all things, and living a life that reflects that recognition. It’s about cultivating compassion, integrity, and a deep sense of connection to something larger than ourselves. It’s about finding purpose and meaning in our lives.
The Dangers of Being ‘Too Holy’:
The problem arises when we start seeing our own holiness as a badge of honour, a way to separate ourselves from others. This leads to judgement, criticism, and a sense of superiority. We might become overly focussed on external rituals and practices, neglecting the true essence of compassion and love. We might become rigid and inflexible, unable to see the beauty in the imperfections of others and ourselves.
Striking the Balance:
The key lies in finding the delicate balance between striving for holiness and acknowledging our own human limitations. Here are some ways to navigate this tightrope:
* **Focus on Inner Transformation:** True holiness is not about outward appearances or rituals, but about cultivating inner qualities like humility, kindness, and forgiveness. * **Embrace Imperfection:** We are all flawed human beings. Embracing our imperfections allows us to extend grace to others and ourselves. * **Practice Humility:** Recognise that we are all on a journey of spiritual growth, and that we have much to learn from others. * **Engage with the World:** Holiness is not about retreating from the world but actively engaging with it, offering compassion and service to others. * **Find Joy in the Journey:** The path to holiness is not a destination but a journey. Embrace the joy and beauty in the process, even with its challenges.
Ultimately, being holy is not about achieving a perfect state of being. It’s about striving for growth, both individually and collectively, with humility and compassion. It’s about recognising the divine spark in ourselves and others, and living a life that reflects that recognition. And most importantly, it’s about remembering that we are all on this journey together.
Worldwide Temple of Aurora 