Enduring union is characterized by a constant movement and renewal that is not worn down by hindrances, but rather relies on the immutable laws of nature upon which the union is based. Marriage is such a union, with vows that last to the death. The United States is such a union, based on unalienable rights.
Women and men tend to hold slightly differing relationships with a union. Women tend to preserve it according to its fundamental principles and tradition. It is safe in their hands. Men tend to determine what their duty calls for under current circumstances, demanding flexibility with an eye also on its preservation.
These roles describe movement that must lie within the scope of all cycles and rhythms that hold everything together and can be counted on for stability and predictability. They must not try to challenge the fundamental qualities that make the union what it is. Nothing challenges gravity in planets’ motions in their orbits (with the exception of occasional collisions, which themselves are subject to gravity), the tides in the oceans nor the seasons. Violating this principle on any level, regarding social institutions and even truth itself, invariably causes enormous upheaval, with the potential on a global level for mass extinction (including our species) and at the least, vast human suffering.
This reading is exhorting us to be careful of our actions. Do not upset the apple cart. What has gone on for centuries must not suddenly be curtailed by random preferences or changed beyond recognition. That is a recipe for disaster.
On the other hand, if we can extend our excellence beyond the current challenges, the breakthrough cited in the reading two days ago will be possible.
The text reads:
“Even if only one inferior man is occupying a ruling position in a city, he is able to oppress superior men. Even a single passion still lurking in the heart has power to obscure reason. Passion and reason cannot exist side by side- therefore fight without quarter is necessary if the good is to prevail.
In a resolute struggle of the good against evil, there are, however, definite rules that must not be disregarded, if it is to succeed. First, resolution must be based on a union of strength and friendliness. Second, a compromise with evil is not possible; evil must under all circumstances be openly discredited. Nor must our own passions and shortcomings be glossed over. Third, the struggle must not be carried on directly by force. If evil is branded, it thinks of weapons, and if we do it the favour of fighting against it blow for blow, we lose in the end because thus we ourselves get entangled in hatred and passion. Therefore it is important to begin at home, to be on guard in our own persons against the faults we have branded. In this way, finding no opponent, the sharp edges of the weapons of evil become dulled. For the same reasons we should not combat our own faults directly. As long as we wrestle with them, they continue victorious. Finally, the best way to fight evil is to make energetic progress in the good.”
