What we see depends on the lens through which we look. What do you see when you gaze upon these two images of the world?                                                                                                    

The first image depicts a world of countries divided by borders and separated by four different oceans. It is a world characterized by a hierarchy of power with  illusionary control over life. This majority view is based on fear, scarcity competition, and a win-lose mentality.

This powerful illustration was presented by Sr. Carol Zinn SSJ as several of us gathered together to explore what God is asking of us in this moment of time. I doubt anyone could deny that we are going through an evolutionary time in history with unprecedented rapid change.  We are experiencing shifting paradigms with a breakdown in systems that are no longer functional. Zinn observes that our structures no longer hold the relationships necessary for the common good of humankind.

Breakdowns are apparent in all aspects of our society; in healthcare, politics, education, financial institutions, and religion. This dissolution and accompanying maladaptive behaviors throughout our planet signals an urgent need for a shift in consciousness. These changing forces have created openings for new life. There is an emerging energy that is drawing us towards healing and a renewal of hope.

The second illustration reveals a world with one ocean. A world that is aligned with  a spirit of cooperation and collaboration between people. Zinn uses the symbol of a circle to illustrate that whatever happens in the circle happens to everyone because we are all in this together. This world view is based on love with mutuality, equanimity and a respect for diversity.  According to Zinn, the only way forward is in partnership with others. We need to embrace diversity because “diversity is reality.”

Although physical appearances differ, there are no differences on the level of the spirit. Zinn points out that world views are neither good or bad. They are either big or small and some may not be able to hold a new reality. Our challenge is to let go of frozen and ingrained thought patterns  and open to an expanding world. Zinn emphasizes that it will cost us everything. She provided the analogy of a sperm entering the ovum; both die to become the zygote which forms a an entirely new life.

The day we see "the other" person's well being as important as our own we will experience new life. 

"Shepherd me, O God, beyond my wants, beyond my fears, from death into life." Psalm :23

Liz Sorensen Wessel