UNITY

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~ as written by Linda Kavelin Popov
Virtues Project Reflection Cards

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MY TWO SENSE:

 In a world so out of balance with this virtue it is really difficult to gain a clear perspective -- let alone get a grip. I watch people around me get torn apart by a loyalty to their sense of unity, which seems to vary from person to person. I find it incredibly painful to witness this with my family, with my children and those I deeply care for. How does our sense of unity become so different and what purpose does it serve the soul? How can the witnesses be helpful without creating isolation and breathing-in doubt? I witness all too often the entanglement these two virtues can create in the human heart. One can often pay a high price for unity, in the name of love. We can compromise our own beliefs; we can turn our back on what we know is right; we can loose our support system as we dance through the cycle; we can also loose trust in ourselves and others; we can loose our hope and we can loose our joy. So much emotion is placed on the loyalty we tie to unity and even when logic and everyone around us can see clearly, advise appears to only serve to tighten the grip and deepen the trench. Hanging on to unity in an abusive relationship does not serve anyone. It is painful to experience and I argue that it may be more painful to watch.

Today, this pick makes me wonder: what is it about the human condition that trusts that it is better to clutch the robe of unity, regardless of the pain it inflicts upon us? Perhaps I have it all wrong thinking that freeing our selves from unhealthy relationships is loyalty to the unity of my spirit. When I am unhappy with something, I believe it is because my soul wants something better for me - to bring peace and joy to my heart. But, perhaps those who remain loyal to unity beyond the rational boundaries of love are doing the right thing. After all, Jesus didn't abandon anyone, did he? All I know is that I pray for detachment on a daily basis for my own peace of mind so that my noble expectation of unity doesn't drive a judgement wedge into my relationships.

And so I dance...