2012 - Nahla Signs up to Charter for Compassion

I am no mystic, of course. I would need to live in a mosque, monastery, synagogue or Sufi temple to practise the art of spiritual wisdom; or, in other ways, harness my meditative self to get closer to the force which many call and identify as God.

In fact, I am far from it, as my prayers are not regular and I do not apply enough the beneficent knowledge I’ve learnt growing up as a Muslim. It does make me feel ashamed, as I know I miss out on having that close connection with the Heavens and not being able to tap into the positive psychological power of sacraments.

But always, I have believed that religion is not about the rituals and dogma; but rather, one’s attitude and action towards fellow woman. It is to apply a generous ethics that doesn’t judge others for being any less worthy of God than our selves; no matter how wide the metaphysical divide might seem.

In 2012, we should all know better than to use religion – or a lack thereof - as a force for aggression, prejudice or holding on to old vendettas. And, to know this is good, but to publicly acknowledge and commit ourselves to the way of peace is even more significant. In fact, it is an urgent task for our generation.

So I was super pleased to recently come across the online Charter for Compassion. The result of a TED wish made in 2009 by the distinguished religious historian, Karen Armstrong, it is well worth a cyber visit and well worth signing up to. You can find it here: The Charter.

Its preface reads: “A call to all men and women to restore compassion to the centre of morality and religion and to return to the ancient principle that any interpretation of scripture that breeds violence, hatred or disdain is illegitimate.”

Part of the project, Armstrong also wrote an accompanying book, The Twelve Steps to a Compassionate Life. It takes the Charter further and outlines small ways we can all begin to incorporate the Golden Rule: “Always treat others as you would wish to be treated yourself.”

Again, it is worth a read and I personally plan to apply one Chapter Step for each month in 2012. To begin the New Year, I can’t think of any better resolution. I will of course keep you all posted as I attempt this feat to add compassion into my life and see where it leads.

Happy 2012!

Nahla x