This is my simple religion. There is no need for temples, no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness.”
August 19th is commemorated as World Humanitarian Day. While acts of humanity, sensitivity, empathy and camaraderie cannot be squeezed into just a specific day, this day reminds us of humanity’s shared destiny on earth.
An individual can live fully only when he rises above individualistic concerns to broader concerns of all humanity because life’s most urgent quest is, “What are you doing for others?” This is the crux and purpose of human existence: What are we doing for others?
Remember, the two most important days in the lives of all of us are the day we’re born and the day we find out why? Because it’s not enough to be just a human. We must exercise our humaneness and empathize with all. Service to others is the rent we pay for our room here on Earth. The thread and spirit of humanity and empathy run through all souls and and all individuals.
If our souls aren’t stirred by what’s happening in Gaza, Ukraine, Afghanistan and many parts of the world, we’re dead souls.
“Just to breathe doesn’t make us a human. To be human, you must be humane and adopt a humanitarian approach and attitude towards all b eings, not just humans. It’s mysticism and spirituality, tasawwuf, there’s a subtle difference between aadmi and insaan. The former is one who breathes. The latter is endowed with Uns — universal love; Agape of Christianity, Uns or Unsiyat is Arabic for love. We can all experience love, no matter who we are or where we are or where we come from. No matter who we are or where we come from. No matter how differences in background, culture, our beliefs, love connects us all. It is a powerful force that unites people from all walks of life and brings communities together in times of joy and sorrow. Love transcends boundaries and reminds us of our shared humanity, making it the most precious and enduring aspect of the human experience. Whether it is love for family, friends, or even strangers, it is the common thread that weaves us all together in a world that can often feel divided.
An individual’s humanity and humaneness can bring about a universal change. This is humanitarianism.
In these uncertain and gory times when mankind is beleagured, even the smallest act or deed of love and empathy can make a difference.
Every face should either smile or cry.
Feelings of all should be the same; all should smile and cry in unison. Let us act right now.
