What if we lived in a world of abundance? The Beatitudes that Jesus taught name the illusions and false beliefs that have kept us chained and imprisoned. We've learned to live from a mentality of anxiety and greed, but what if we were to find abundance, solace and comfort are actually near? We've learned to live by striving, competition, and comparisons, but what if we all have equal dignity and worth? The Beatitudes point us toward what is real and true. We are not helpless. We have the power to seek justice and do good. Mercy triumphs over judgement. We can stop hiding and pretending, and be honest. The Beatitudes invite us to a new way of life, into a path of recovery. Instead of dividing the world into "us" and "them," we can learn to embrace each other as family. Instead of resisting pain, we can learn to surrender and join the cosmic struggle between good and evil. Instead of living from fear, we can choose radical love. It's often assumed that the good life is only for the most privileged, the rich and powerful, the most charmed and beautiful. The poor, the grieving, the meek and oppressed are left out. But the ninefold path that can be found in the Beatitudes is for everyone. Whatever your story, whatever your struggle, wherever you find yourself, this way is available to you.
