Self v. Others

In reading about the rise of Catholicism and Muslim it reminds me of the early 1800's here in the United States. A time of religions uprising. A time when man good people were trying to improve themselves and the circumstances around them. A time of personal discovery and inlightenment. A time where many took the same ideas of humanity and interpreted them differently to fulfill their own understanding of what is good and right. In the reading of The Rise of Monasticim, Anthony, Pachomius, Basil and Martin, all esstentially started with the same foundation, but changed it to meet their own perspective of how things should be done. Anthony believing in total isolation to obtain personal revelation and understanding. Pachomius understanding the benefits of being self reliant while searching for the relevation and understanding. Basil saw beyond even those and recognized the benefits of working together for a common goal and learning from each other experienses, revelations, and understanding. All different, and yet each of these were based on self improvement and inlightenment. While these men were no doubt an inspiration to many around them, I do not believe their impact was as far reading as Martin's. Martin saw beyond himself to the needs those around him. By sharing both his temporal and spiritual resources, he improved not only his own world but the world of many others. Unfortuantely, like many others who fill their lives with serving others, he was thrust into a position of leadership and even fame. Likely taking him away from the simplicity of helping and teaching the individual, and thus limited even greater influence. For these reasons, I would have to say that if I were looking at joining a religious sect at this time I would probably have to go with Franciscan. I like its simplicity: - having only what you need so you do not develope pride. - speaking kindly when traveling (gentle, peaceful and unassuming) - taking no thought for money beyond your basic needs and those around you - working and not being idle - caring for the sick Last but not least, "be careful not to become angrey and upset. . ., for anger and perturbation in oneself or others impedes love."