Dear Friend,
Let the world see that people of all faiths, or none, can respect and love one another. No prejudice, no exceptions, no harm need be done in the name of one’s God or higher power. Indeed, religious faith may not be hijacked and used as an excuse for violence.
This is my take-away from my week at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Salt Lake City. It was a wonderful and inspirational time. Ten thousand people from 50 different faiths and 80 different countries were present. I was privileged to present my book, I Can’t Always See My Path…But I Keep On Walking, and speak on one of my favorite topics, “We are one with all living species.”
With me in this photo from Parliament is Chief Phil Lane and Dr. Rose, who did an impromptu song and dance by my booth. Even though they didn’t know each other, they both happened to know the same song that was in a native American language.
And, this is me and Kelly, the winner of my book. It was so great to see how happy she was with the book!
The Parliament is the world’s oldest and largest inter-faith organization, and is tirelessly promoting world peace and respect for all faiths. It inspires me to encourage you to join me in committing to a code of love and tolerance. I signed this petition created by the Parliament of the Worlds Religions as a declaration on war, hate and violence and am sharing it with you. Please sign the petition if it feels like the right thing for you to do and take a stand for peace and love.
The Dalai Lama said, “Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive.”
Here are just a few of the faces that were to be seen during Parliament. The Buddhist monks were also on stage to usher in the video broadcast of the Dalia Lama. Every morning there was a circle of people singing and creating music. Anyone could join in. We were also fortunate to experience this drumming circle led by many native Americans.
I call for a groundswell of love and tolerance, by every individual, by every faith, a Love Revolution if you will. It’s not corny to say love can save the world. This sentiment has been voiced by a few notable people: Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Jr., The Buddha, Jesus, the spiritual master, Vivekananda. We can do this, one person loving another, one day at a time.
With gratitude,
Richard
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