World Peace
In the movie Miss Congeniality — for those old enough to remember — in the Q&A portion, the judges asked, “What’s the most important thing our society needs?” Nearly all the contestants responded with “world peace,” turning the phrase into a humorous cliché that’s lingered even years after the film.
But I think “world peace” really is something — or at least one of the things — that most of us truly want. It’s certainly part of Tenrikyo’s vision for the Joyous Life: a way of living where all people — with an emphasis on the word all — coexist in harmony, help one another, and feel joy and genuine gratitude for the blessings of being alive.
The Challenge of Division in Our Modern World
Now, more than ever, people feel increasingly polarized, which leads to anger, resentment, and even hatred. This growing divide feeds feelings of isolation and loneliness. All of that is true — but what can actually be done to de-escalate these tensions so we can get back on track toward the Joyous Life?
As you can imagine, there are countless opinions and options. The sheer scope of most of the solutions is bigger than what any small group or church could hope to accomplish alone. However, two quotes come to mind:
“No one can do everything, but everyone can do something.” — Max Lucado
“Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean.” — Ryunosuke Satoro
So, in such a big world, can the community we’re trying to build really make any difference at all? Perhaps. If you, or the group you decide to join, is just “one drop,” it could very well help in an overall effect.
Starting with Self-Reflection: The Tenrikyo Approach
To start, however, Tenrikyo teaches that, first and foremost, you must start with yourself. In other words, look inward before you try to save the world. That goes for individuals and for groups like the North Honolulu Church. The truth is, none of us will look inward and find a perfectly pure heart, ready to instantly help all humanity.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t contribute just because your self-reflection reveals chaos or “mental dust.” Maybe even if you discover that your inner heart is in disarray — spiritually or emotionally, you can find a place to start, find a way to be a “drop.” In Tenrikyo, we do offer a suggestion as to where we can start. Our daily prayers ask God to sweep away the accumulated and accumulating “mental dust” that makes us feel unsettled inside. We pray for this help every morning and evening. We believe that this is a good place to start, especially if you still feel unsettled when you try to start being a “drop.”
Creating Ripples of Hope and Healing
Maybe, if enough people start by working on sweeping away their own dust and then reaching out — for friendship, community, or help — it will create a ripple effect outward, even if it’s invisible at first. It could be the start of a virtuous circle that does lead to “world peace” and the Joyous Life, hopefully. We need hope.
Ready to Begin Your Journey Toward World Peace?
Join us at North Honolulu Church and become part of a community dedicated to creating positive change, one heart at a time. Together, we can work toward the Joyous Life that brings peace to ourselves and our world. Visit our church and discover how you can be part of this transformative journey.
