Each culture provides explanations for questions asked by its youth. Questions like ‘How or what made the world?’, ‘Why am I here?’, and ‘Where am I going?’ get answered. The answers shape our perceptions of the world, our values, sense of purpose, and the meaning of life.
Diverse cultures share common explanations for the world they see. History shows most older cultures were inclusive. Few cultures judged themselves to be superior to all other life forms. Older cultures named and revered the energies of creation, and all applied human traits to those energies. Most creation stories speak of seen and unseen factors. Some were judged good, while others were not. Whatever attitude a culture adopts will show in the attitudes and behaviours within their society.
Knowing the subtle ideas within our worldview is vital, because it enables us to make snap decisions without checking facts. Likewise the language we use can restrict our perception of what is around us. The words we use are powerful tools to shape our world.
Next week some words will demonstrate their power.
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