“Every account of a higher power that I’ve seen described, of all religions that I’ve seen, include many statements with regard to the benevolence of that power. When I look at the universe and all the ways the universe wants to kill us, I find it hard to reconcile that with statements of beneficence.”—Neil deGrasse Tyson
The fifth of Lauryn Axelrod’s Ten Words: An Interspiritual Guide to Becoming Better People in a Better World is “benevolence.” Benevolence refers to the inclination to do good—to be kind.
It is hard to disagree with Neil deGrasse Tyson’s comments. However, I don’t believe that the nature of the Universe reflects a God that is not benevolent. I see a God that is intentional– a God that allows a certain harshness to our existence that we may grow to be benevolent. There is no need for acts of kindness in a world that is inherently kind.
Over the last several weeks, I have reflected and meditated on attention, acceptance, authenticity, balance, and, today, benevolence. I believe these are intentional steps toward growing toward care (which, spoil-alert, is the tenth word).
To address Neil deGrasse Tyson’s words, I consider the parent who gives their child everything they ask for. Unless we are that child who has been thusly spoiled by our parents (and if we are we are probably in denial of being spoiled), we are aware of the consequences of such parenting. Personally, I am grateful (grattitude) that my parents made me work for things and said ‘no’ quite often. I would want no more from my God that, I believe, intends good for me—“in all things God works together for the good” (Romans 8:28, NIV). This verse goes on to suggest that this is for “his purpose.” I would contend that this “purpose” is to instill benevolence and grow caring hearts.
One of the most impressive assignments I did as an undergraduate student in college was to read and write a reflection of Garrett Hardins’ essay, “The Tragedy of the Commons.” The Tragedy is that mankind lacks the benevolence to care for the Commons. To me, the “Commons” is a metaphor the Spiritual—for the concept that there is something greater than self.
In all the ways that the Universe wants to kill us, there is opportunity for benevolence, for kindness, for love.
Be your best today; be better tomorrow.
Carpe momento!!