Good Morning Family!!!

*** Let me preface this quote for the day as this is not a political quote, but a spiritual / cultural / motivational quote ***

Quote for the Day: 

It is often said the 12 Traditions of 12-Step Programs emphasize guidelines for relationships. If this is true, how do the 12-Steps mirror principles of DEI? Additionally, does religion & various cultures mirror principles of DEI?

Diversity is differences that everyone has & inclusion is ensuring individuals feel a sense of belonging. 

The 12 Traditions allows individuals to be themselves in relationships, guides individuals in decision-making in many relationships, & respecting people's differences & similarities. It means allowing people to be free from barriers. They afford people the opportunity to participate. They afford individuals a sense of belonging. They allow people to be people, free from political ideologies, religious doctrines, & the like. People are able to experience a sense of belonging, a sense of freedom, a sense of love. I've often heard people say, "The steps keep me from killing myself and the traditions keep me from killing other people." 

Many religious ideologies emphasize aspects of DEI. In Judaism, "Tikkun Olam" is translated into "repairing the world" with a focus on community service, social injustice, environmental work, & basically anything that focuses on the betterment of the world. Jainism, an ancient Indian religion originating around 6th century BCE, emphasizes compassion & empathy, & recognizes that everyone has inherent value & dignity. The Lotus Sutra (Buddhist Scripture) teaches us to recognize the worth & dignity of everyone. 

The idea of feeling a sense of belonging is crucial. Its concept is meaningful for our growth & development. It's meaningful for our continued path out of the darkness. It's inherent in our very fabric of existence as human beings, living in a social world. 

Thought for the day: What are you going to do to help someone else feel a sense of belonging? I'm going to continue passing on love, compassion, and empathy to people I meet, people I know, & people I don't know. 

Peace & love to all 

~ KO