We are connected to each other, not loosely but in countless ways. Apart from the obvious physical and emotional links between people, we share the same Life Force that flows through me and you. We are made of the same ‘stuff’, breathe the same air and drink the same water. The differences between us are trivial in the wider scheme of things.

Consequently we are all of equal worth. Only when we recognise the worth of others can we truly recognise it in ourselves.

Dr Albert Schweitzer wrote:

‘Man can no longer live for himself alone. We must realise that all life is valuable and that we are united to all life. From this knowledge comes our spiritual relationship with the universe.’

We are inter-dependent, although many of us behave as if it were not so. Imagine a large oak tree. At the summit, the leaves appear separate, but as we lower our gaze, we see that they are connected to branches which merge into a thick trunk. Out of sight, the trunk connects to roots which spread out and draw water and nutrients from the ground.

Like those leaves, we appear physically separate, but draw energy from the same invisible source. We constantly give and receive energy from each other otherwise we stagnate and die. Anything that blocks the flow of life-giving energy between us harms everyone concerned.

When we are with others, we continually pick up each others’ energy. We can also sense others’ energy fields at a distance. We give and receive energy in many ways, such as:

• Through our auras. Just being in the presence of an inspiring individual can energise.
• Our thoughts, which have energy and carry to others.
• Visually – even a glance has energy.
• Words – contrast the effect of a cruel remark with an admiring comment.
• Kinaesthetically – a gentle touch can work wonders.

We are inter-connected with all living creatures and owe them a duty of care. They feel happiness and pain and deserve our kindness. We share more than 95% of our genes with many of the higher mammals and are as inter-dependent with them as to each other. Without animals, the planet would become uninhabitable and the human race could not survive.

You’re unique and you’re on your own path, but none of us can make it entirely on our own.

©David Lawrence Preston, 4.12.2016

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How to Books, 2007