The Opening Statement
A Discussion of Life, God, and Our Natural Order
In Summary
As this discussion draws to a close, I want to gather the core tenets that shape my belief system.
- I believe we must clear our minds and hearts of bias when examining new ideas or revisiting old ones.
- I believe that understanding requires listening to both the intellect and the voice within the heart.
- I believe the spiritual fulfillment that comes from serving others is real, undeniable, and the foundation of our purpose in life.
- I believe the universe is not a random collection of matter, but the result of ingenious creation, governed in part by a natural order that seeks peace and harmony.
- I believe the voice within us is that of the Creator, who asks only that we treat others as we would want to be treated.
- I believe free will is an essential part of the Creator’s plan, allowing diversity of thought and action to shape a better world over time.
- I believe morality is measured by how our actions and intentions affect the freedom, dignity, and well-being of others.
- I believe deeply in the power of redemption: I am not who I once was, nor who I hope to become, but who stands before us right now.
- I believe goodness resides within each of us, and that evil has no inherent power beyond the harm created by behavior.
Think back to the story of the Big Red Dog. This was the event that prompted me to put to paper the beliefs that, up until now, I kept quiet, for fear of influencing the faith of others.
She knew nothing of Scripture. She did not recite doctrine or perform rituals.
She does one thing—trusts.
This trust was not coerced or demanded; it was earned through patience, consistency, and unthreatening love.
This story produced two validations of Natural Order.
- The big red dog finds peace through faith.
- I found peace through service.
You have probably experienced similar events in your life. The more we understand their true meanings, the more profound the experience becomes.
And finally, I believe this:
Even if you cannot accept a higher power or creator, living a life rooted in service to others, personal responsibility, forgiveness, and respect would still lead—without question—to a better and more humane world.
Final Thoughts
I hope this is only the opening statement—to an ongoing discussion about life, God, and our Natural Order. I welcome your challenges to the beliefs outlined in this discussion.
Speaking only for myself:
I believe I was created in the exact image of God, and that this same God lives within me. From Him, I inherited the ability to see the good in others and to love them unconditionally.
I know I have fallen short of what I have been inspired to understand. Yet I also trust—deeply—that if I find a quiet place, bow my head, admit that I have fallen short of being that humble servant, and commit again to serving others with the same forgiveness and love I now seek, I will be received with grace.
I believe I will be cleansed—not by ritual or words—but by the warm tears of God as He anxiously welcomes me home.
And then, before another tick can come off the clock, I will not be who I used to be, nor who I hope someday to be. I will be who stands before God at this very moment.
For this moment—and for as many moments as I choose—my world will be in its Natural Order.
Amen.