Conflict is a course of action most
choose to avoid. But why is this so? Conflict is one of the most
natural processes in the universe. The ultimate conclusion of conflict
is resolution. This is always the case. Resolution is the foundation of
peace and stability. Peace and stability are necessary for growth and
successful living. We all seek the end product of conflict, yet we
distain the process of bringing the end about. Is this a logical thing?
Nature teaches us that life is an
ever-changing constant. This is no contradiction. Destruction is
inevitable and yet out of destruction always comes construction. After
the devastation of volcanoes, earthquakes and storms, life bounces back,
often in a stronger form than was before. Do we say that nature is in
conflict against itself? No, such thoughts only express human
foolishness.
Nature grows by expanding and
contracting. We consider nature to be violent, but this is only our
human point of view. Nature is neither violent, nor non-violent.
Nature just is; it follows its own course, as ordained from on high.
Nature is not in conflict, we just interpret it as such. Learn this
lesson well and apply it to humanity.
Conflict in human affairs reflects the
natural cycles of growth. Individuals and societies all face conflicts
on a regular basis. When we confront conflict and interact within it
wisely pursuing our best interests, in the end our best interests are
met and fulfilled. As it is in nature, so it is in the natural order
for humanity.
Even in war when there is devastation
and mayhem, out of the destructive conflict comes stability and a new
time of peace and order. There is a time and a purpose for all things
under Heaven; a time for war and a time for peace.
Ancient wars, recent wars and present
ones will all follow this same pattern. One side will win, one side
will lose and in the end, there will be a merging and synthesis through
which all prosper. Yet, this can only come about through battle. Only
combat maintains the status of both sides. If one side were not to
fight or to surrender, that side would die and not continue after the
cessation of hostilities. This violates the natural course.
Conflict is inevitable. It is part of
growth; it is part of life. Not only is conflict a healthy part of
life, it is necessary in that it strengthens the resolve to live,
survive and thrive. Only in strength is there survival. Only in
strength can one thrive. Conflict breeds strength.
The mighty volcano explodes and destroys
all in its path. Then is silent again. The earth licks its wounds and
is quickly healed. Much devastation has been seen here on Earth, entire
extinctions of civilizations and species. Yet, here we are today, the
byproducts and children of that which was gone long ago.
We too shall follow this path. We are
here today and we will be gone tomorrow; just like there were others
here long ago before us who have gone their way and whom we no longer
even remember. In time to come, in our place will come others with
their own ways of things. They too will last their allotted time and
then they too will go their way, only to be replaced by yet still
others. Thus goes the saga of life. A time and a purpose for all
things under Heaven; a time to die and a time to be born, a time to
break down and a time to build up.
This is the great cycle, the secret of
the supernal Sabbath and the mystery of the ancient Kings who ruled
before “Hadar, King of Israel.” First comes work, then comes rest; then
the new week begins, not the same as the last. One who is wise prepares
during the week for the coming day of rest. One who does not prepare
will have nothing to eat and will not be able to rest or enjoy.
Discard your distractions, and open your
hearts. Only when your hearts are open to Heaven will your eyes then
see and your ears hear. Until then there is nothing more to say.
