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6.0.0 Personal Practice - OverviewVersion 1.2 December 2013 (Previous Version) There are an almost overwhelming number of choices that we can make, based on our beliefs. There is a lot of sound, general advice that helps us to decide what is best for ourselves and our communities. We learn from our parents, teachers and community leaders. We also learn as we age, not just as children but also as adults and elders. We acquire rules of thumb about what we and our communities can do. These are the best we have for “known knowns” in the personal sphere. But there is a proviso: we must continually question our own standards, because, our personal lives (and those of our elders) are short, our experience and knowledge is limited, and a longer and wider perspective frequently helps. Most of us are pitifully aware of the vast amount of things that we don't know. These “known unknowns” hit us in the face on a daily basis. But that’s not the worst of it. For most of us, the biggest problem is that we don't know what we don't know. We never will. We can only do our best to be as informed as we can, and be tolerant of others who see the world differently – they may know something we don’t, or vice versa. Our presentation of global beliefs is an attempt to identify at least the major things we should all know, to minimize the risk of “unknown unknowns” as best we can. As individuals and societies we must remain humble, but at the same time be sufficiently confident of our analysis to be assertive about our value choices.. ------------------------- The overview below covers the same conclusions as the introduction (see 0.3.6), but in more detail. Part 6 Personal Practice: Conclusions (DRAFT long version 1.2 December 2013) In our daily lives, from moment to moment, we make choices based on the situation, our experiences, and what we understand, trying to be consistent, coherent and compassionate. ● Our analysis of philosophy, science, history, religion and art clarifies the actions that are available to us and their likely outcomes. From this analysis we make core choices that reflect our core values, which we use to develop guidelines for our personal behaviour. ● Mental health comes from integrating our drives and desires – with a realistic understanding of the abilities and limitations of ourselves, other people and the world – into a cohesive approach that connects us to others and our environment. ● Physical health comes from personal hygiene, eating and exercising well, taking only justifiable risks, avoiding excessive drug use, and following sound medical advice. ● Friendships and sexual relationships must be based on trust, openness and consent, and a commitment to the relationship, for whatever period it lasts. ● Family relationships are centred on mutual support, while respecting individual space. Parents are obliged to nurture their children, and earn their children’s respect and support. ● Work relationships and community relationships must be based on mutual respect, non-violence, equality and responsibility, achievement and connection. ● Though some don't feel the need, many of us seek a so called ‘spiritual’ connection, grounded in reality, which can be found in group or solitary situations, in action or quiet contemplation, communing with others or with nature, in rituals and daily routines. more
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