This week: Human Dignity Edited by: Jeff  
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"Only a real risk tests the reality of a belief."
— C.S. Lewis
About The Editor: Greetings! My name is Jeff and I'm one of the regular editors of the official Spiritual Newsletter! I've been a member of Writing.com since 2003, and have edited more than 400 newsletters across the site in that time. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email me directly or submit feedback in the comment box at the bottom of this newsletter.
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Human Dignity
Over the past several months, I'll admit to being really discouraged by several conversations I've had (or overheard) about basic human interactions. While almost every major faith tradition that I can think of has an undergirding of fundamental respect, honor, etc. for our fellow human beings, those values don't seem to be translating into the modern discourse. Some of the statements I've overheard recently include:
"People who use food stamps should only be allowed to buy basic foods like cereal, fruit and vegetables, rice, and chicken."
"The [insert political party here] are destroying our country."
"Immigrants don't deserve due process."
"Christians are all hypocrites."
"Trans people shouldn't exist."
What I've found particularly discouraging about these statements and these kinds of conversations is that they all seem to be embracing the concept of "othering," which emphasizes treating a person or group of people as intrinsically different from yourself, and usually "less-than." Looking down on others from a place of moral judgment is a slippery slope that can lead to fear, resentment, hate, and even oppression. Pretty much the opposite of what most religious texts teach us about how to treat other people. It can also lead to stereotyping, where the assumption is that everyone in a particular group thinks and acts the same way.
Without trying to get too political about this, and regardless of what your personal stance is on some of these topics, I think it's important not to lose focus on the fact that the people on the other side of the argument are still people. Human beings who have thoughts and beliefs, fears and feelings, friends and family, life experiences, and — in most cases — inherent biases and prejudices; all of which inform their world view. And we can have philosophical or even political conversations about how to tackle some of these very complicated and sensitive issues. But when we come into the discussion of these issues from a standpoint of not recognizing the inherent humanity and value of the people across the table from us, there's very little hope for compromise or even a basic understanding of where one of your fellow human beings is coming from.
For better or worse, the next few years are going to probably be full of othering. It's already happening more and more, with alarming frequency. Many people see political and financial gain to be had in fomenting fear, distrust, and even hate among different population groups. When you feel yourself being pushed or pulled in the direction of discounting another individual's (or group's) existence or dignity, I'd encourage you to revisit whatever your faith tradition says about how to treat others. Chances are, it's going to encourage you to be kind, caring, compassionate, understanding, patient, gracious, respectful, etc. ... and I think those are all qualities we could all use more of in the modern world.
Until next time,
Jeff
If you're interested in checking out my work:
"New & Noteworthy Things" | "Blogocentric Formulations"
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You are also invited to check out these items from members of the community:
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Feedback from "Spiritual Newsletter (March 19, 2025)" about finding community:
Jeff, thank you so much for sharing your thoughts about community. I'm sad today when I see such a stark contrast between today's description of community and the church "family" atmosphere I grew up with. We can all have a personal relationship with Jesus while at the same time celebrate church "family" for this generation and the generations to come.
— lbidler 
WOW! Jeff, first of all, thank you for including Squibbles in your list of writing to check out in our community of writers. That is exciting.
Secondly, I think that the world of religion is upside down. I also believe that you are absolutely right that people no longer really assemble themselves in a house of worship as I did during my growing-up years.
In my church, which I strive to attend every Sunday, many of our congregation join us on Zoom. They pay their offerings by Zelle, Chas App, or some other app, and never come to the building. Many I would not know if I met them on the street.
In my opinion, this contributes to isolation, loneliness, depression, and detachment. I could never prove it, but I believe that the work at home, Zoom meetings, etc., have also led to desensitizing people.
My question is, "Is this the society we want for ourselves, our children, and/or future generations?" I think not. If not, what do we do to turn this around?
Again, thank you for sharing your thoughts on the above subject.
— G. B. Williams 
Jeff, spot on about community and coming together. Church was/is definitely a good way to do that because you meet like minded people. Back in the day there were rotary clubs, lions club, kwana's clubs, etc. A lot of those clubs have fell by the wayside. Who has time for volunteer service and service to others when you work, go home, laundry dishes, kids, sleep and back for more. Service to others and community can be rewarding spiritually, but you have to make time for it.
— StephBee 
Our church organization is an extended family. Couples meet at our annual campmeeting and later marry. They bring families from across the world together. We hold church 4 times a week with once-a-month YP weekends focusing on the youth and their needs. I love that I can go to any church in the world and will be welcomed. I probably personally know someone there or related to someone there. I love our organization. Also Music plays a huge part in our church. It brings kids together to learn all kinds of instruments as well as vocals. They win contests too.
— Quick-Quill 
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Spiritual: April 16, 2025 Issue [#13087]
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