56 - Paraclism: Personal Growth Through CommunityFlourishing
My fellow believers – as we’ve been getting new membership this month, we’ve been having a lot of introductory conversations. We want to review some of those ere, for the benefit of all. What is this profound and enlightening philosophy, Paraclism?
At its core, Paraclism emphasizes efficiency and self-sufficiency, but it is deeply rooted in the importance of community. It teaches us that while we strive to be the best versions of ourselves, our growth and betterment are intrinsically tied to the community around us. Paraclism acknowledges that no true individual exists in isolation; we are all part of a larger societal fabric. Paraclism is exemplified through its Five Keystones, each offering guidance on how to navigate our personal and communal lives harmoniously.
Keystone One: Strive to be efficient, competent, and autonomous.
Efficiency and autonomy are crucial. In seeking to be self-sufficient, we maximize our potential and minimize dependency. However, this Keystone does not advocate for isolation. Rather, it encourages us to bring our best selves into the community, contributing our skills and talents to the collective good. By being efficient and competent, we are better equipped to support and uplift those around us.
Keystone Two: Remember that you are fallible like everyone else; be ready to admit and forgive wrongdoing.
Recognizing our fallibility fosters humility and compassion. It reminds us that everyone makes mistakes and that forgiveness is essential. Admitting our wrongdoings and forgiving others are acts that strengthen community bonds. They create an environment where individuals feel safe to grow and learn from their errors without fear of harsh judgment.
Keystone Three: Uphold the rights and autonomy of others as you would your own.
This Keystone underscores the importance of respecting and defending the rights of others. In a community, each person's autonomy is as valuable as our own. By upholding this principle, we create a society where fairness and respect prevail. It encourages a culture of mutual respect and support, essential for a thriving community. None of us are whole until all of us are whole.
Keystone Four: Endeavor to learn new things and be educated by others.
Continuous learning is a cornerstone of Paraclism. It promotes the idea that we should always seek to expand our knowledge and be open to learning from those around us. This Keystone fosters a dynamic community where ideas are exchanged, and collective wisdom grows. By learning from each other, we become more informed, empathetic, and capable members of society.
Keystone Five: Seek and follow your calling in life.
Each of us has a unique purpose. Paraclism encourages us to discover and pursue our calling, understanding that our personal fulfillment contributes to the community's overall well-being. When we follow our true path, we bring passion and dedication to our communal roles, inspiring others to do the same.
Keystone Six: In all things strive for an equitable result imbued with integrity and empathy.
Equity, integrity, and empathy are the hallmarks of a just society. This Keystone calls us to ensure that our actions and decisions benefit all, not just a select few. By striving for equitable outcomes, we promote a community where fairness and compassion are at the forefront, fostering a sense of belonging and security for everyone.
Paraclism teaches us that while efficiency and self-sufficiency are important, they are not just ends in and of themselves. Our personal growth is deeply intertwined with our communal relationships. By embracing the Five Keystones, we cultivate a society that values respect, continuous learning, personal fulfillment, and equity. Let us commit to these principles, recognizing that through our collective efforts, we can create a community where everyone thrives.
This is The Way.
