“People do not accept their differences.

They do not know each other sufficiently.

They reject those who have not the same civilization.
They refuse to help each other.
They are unable to free themselves from egoism and from self-conceit.
But God created all equal in dignity,
Though different with regard to gifts and talents,
Mankind is a whole where each one has his/her part to play.
The worth of the various peoples and of the diverse cultures must be recognized.
The world is as it were a living organism.
Each one has something to receive from the others and has something to give to them.”

-Pope John Paul II

To Muslims at Casablanca
Morocco, 18 August 1985

Our Imperative: Religion, Which One?

I have been pushed, pulled, shove, dragged and might even been be dragged from
diverse kinds of religion from as long as I can remember. Well you see, I think I have
changed my religion thrice already (only those that I am aware of) and I have been
with different kinds of people with different views of their faith. Yes, it’s somewhat
crazy but it’s quite an experience.

Where we are, the Philippines, is not a mono religion though there is a strong
ubiquitous presence of the Catholic Church. There are different faith traditions in
the land. Believers, generally, respect and attempt to be sensitive to each other’s
faith and tradition, though there remain some religious communities that see glory
in attacking other people’s faith and traditions. The present spirit that reigns is to
recognize our diversities yet seriously seek and experience our “kindredness” in
love and service. It’s very evident in our surroundings that against all odds we are
trying our best to co-exist harmoniously in this piece of land. Sadly, there are
people who are trying to incapacitate it; still we are trying.

From what I have experienced, I had witnessed, debated, conversed, and even
converted, there were points that have never changed regardless of what situation I
am. We should be open to others for us to learn and live with each other in
tolerance. Yes, this is the challenge; the call that our living faiths ask each one of us
to live. That is to accept, to trust, and to live together as neighbors. The imperatives
of the two greatest commandments (Love of God and Love of Neighbors) are also
the very imperatives of the latest Muslim letter, Common Word, addressed to the
Christian leaders of the world. One of my greatest points is “walk the talks”; it’s
very hard for us to put this kind of things into action. That’s why sometimes, when
you want someone to know what you believed in, dispute is not actually necessary
to show your point. Just let your life show it. Just Live It.
No doubt, you and I can spell the difference in making our community a genuine
“space” of peace and partnership among Christians, Muslims and Indigenous
peoples.