Posted By David on June 7, 2009

There is also one rule that lies at the heart of every religion – that we do unto others as we would have them do unto us. This truth transcends nations and peoples – a belief that isn’t new; that isn’t black or white or brown; that isn’t Christian, or Muslim or Jew. It’s a belief that pulsed in the cradle of civilization, and that still beats in the heart of billions. It’s a faith in other people, and it’s what brought me here today. Barack Obama, speaking in Cairo

The President of the USA, by using the Golden Rule so prominently on a consistent basis, has the ability to raise awareness of its centrality in human society. However, as has been said of other areas that he’s addressed, no one person can change the world. It is up to all of us to become more deliberate in our use of the Golden Rule, more intentional in applying it to our own relationships.

Obama can be the catalyst. as others have been in their own spheres of influence. It is we who must provide the catalyst’s reaction. All too often, people try to imbue their leaders with magical qualities. We elect them, and then we go back to whatever we were doing as if they could defeat destructive ideologies single-handedly, like a knight slaying a dragon.

Those who oppose pluralism, who do not wish to see peace between diverse cultures, seldom work that way. They’re more like a swarm of ants. Containing them requires the concerted efforts of many.

There has been a growing awareness of the Golden Rule over the last few years, a renewed focus on its ability to offer us common ground. The movement, unorganized as it may be, now appears to have a champion.

Lets not leave him to carry the torch alone.

Categories: Change
Tags: barack obama, cairo, catalyst, common ground, cradle of civilization, Golden Rule, human society, pluralism, president of the usa