I grew up learning that we don’t mix politics with religion. As I grew older, I found it was more important that, whatever our personal views, we express love to others.
In other words, if the state of the world, the politics of a country, or the thoughts of society are based and shared in love, there is no boundary between the two. This is not about taking sides so much as revealing the center — in ourselves and in our world.
I love the way Rev. Robert Brzezinski D.Div, New Thought Media, shared in his article:
The Mic Belongs to Love:
This has never been about choosing sides to win an argument. It has always been about remembering the center so everyone can find their footing. New Thought does not retreat from the world; it listens for the Presence within it. If Oneness is true in silence, it’s true in public. If dignity is our teaching, dignity must be our practice. And when our practice meets systems that forget who people are, we say so—not to scandalize, but to stay honest.
We speak not to take sides, but to reveal the center—where love becomes justice and justice becomes peace.
So no, this is not about importing politics into spirituality. This is spirituality refusing to stay decorative. Truth doesn’t require our defense; it asks for our embodiment. God does not need our silence; God asks for our voice—clear, warm, and unafraid. The Infinite does not avoid the shadow; it moves through it as us, until even the shadow remembers it belongs to the light.
In all honesty, I find this challenging. I, like most people, have strong opinions about the state of the world and our country. I am also aware of the importance of non-judgement! How can I reconcile my opinions and beliefs with non-judgment?
Finding ways to stay centered has been very helpful to me. Unity has published a booklet called Mindful Moments. An article by Rev. Ellen Debenport called Eight Ways to Stay Centered lists some helpful tips:
- Avoiding Spiritual Bypass: What we are feeling is real
- Give Up Labels: Don’t look at people, events, or situations as good or bad
- Stay Grounded: Notice what is happening right now in our space
- Get the Facts: Facts are neutral; we create the drama. (Stay curious)
- Learn About Yourself: If you are in judgment, often that trait lies within you
- Be For Something: Try focusing on what is ours to do individually
- Love the World: Focus your attention on love in all circumstances
- Make Every Thought Count: What we hold in our minds influences the whole.
If we decide to express love to others with an open heart, we may be able to be a part of the change in our world.