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God: Your Second Awareness Level and its Importance for Your Personal Development

God

Become Aware of God Today!

This article seeks to delve into the notion of a second tier of awareness that succeeds our personal consciousness. The initial level is self-awareness, while the subsequent one pertains to the awareness of a higher power. This discussion does not challenge the existence of a deity or deities; rather, it recognizes the profound conviction many have in such beings as an existing reality in 2022. Further exploration on this topic will follow.

Who Is God?

The inquiry emerges: Who is this God? Are we speaking of Thor, the thunder god? Whether Thor or the God of heaven and earth, we’re referring to the Creator of the world, the God depicted in the Bible. Our views of Him might differ significantly, but in the end, it’s about His existence.

Numerous religions founded by humans provide perspectives on Him, including Judaism, Christianity, African Traditional Religion (ATR), Buddhism, and others. He is not limited by religion, yet He has opted to reveal Himself to various human cultures in distinct ways throughout history.

As an African Christian who also recognizes elements of God from African traditions prior to Christianity’s arrival, I maintain a personal faith in the Creator. My beliefs might appear pagan to some, owing to the variances in our religious beliefs, traditions, doctrines, teachings, and societal impacts.

In my view, God’s existence is apparent in ourselves and the cosmos around us. I believe that the physical universe cannot exist without a cause, which must be external, a conscious mind of some kind. Apart from what we can infer from creation, there are claims from different religions that He has revealed Himself to mankind throughout our history, with Jesus Christ being the sole figure to assert divinity.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

How Do You Know God?

As mentioned before, He has revealed Himself to humanity in various ways throughout history, including through Jesus Christ, as recorded in the first four books of the New Testament. Even before Christianity reached Africa, people had known Him through different means and revelations. Our world encompasses both physical and spiritual realms, which is undeniable. I have personally seen phenomena that are inexplicable, as they pertain more to the spiritual than the physical realm.

Could the events I’ve witnessed be mere illusions or, in the worst case, intentional deceptions? I do not subscribe to the view that those said to be demon-possessed were simply mentally ill, as might be assumed today. Despite scientific progress and the knowledge it provides, our world is becoming more complex, in part because we often neglect fundamental truths, such as the existence of a spiritual realm beyond our sensory perception. Thus, this question can have various answers for different reasons. I recognize Him through nature (general revelation) and Jesus Christ (special revelation).

The Bible offers direct accounts of His interactions with humanity in ancient times. We each face a personal choice to either accept or reject these accounts. Nevertheless, the reality of God will be disclosed to us, either individually or together, after we die.

My own experiences contribute to my strong belief in the existence of God, Satan, demons, angels, and other spiritual beings. My aim is not to prove the Creator’s existence; His reality does not depend on belief. Yet, we all come to know Him in our own unique ways, as He intends.

Why Is It Important to Know God?

Understanding God means recognizing His existence and His role in creation. Acknowledging the Creator is a conscious act, a second level of awareness. Belief in God suggests a divine order; He is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end of all humanity understands. Recognizing that my life was purposefully designed before I was aware of it is crucial. I am not an accident. This belief depends on God’s existence. With God, there is order; without Him, chaos ensues.

To me, God is the source of life and everything in the universe. Without Him, existence would not be possible. Our existence, including yours and mine, is due to God’s presence. He is the essence of life and the foremost relationship. Engaging with God and others are fundamental relationships.

I am aware of my existence, God’s existence, your existence, and that of other beings, which defines the levels of relationships. Understanding these relationships brings a sense of order and responsibility on Earth, offering hope and courage in tough times. Although I may not understand all theological aspects of God, I accept that some reasons are beyond my comprehension.

Therefore, there is an inherent order to all things, be they tangible or conceptual. I am conscious of myself, God, you, and other beings. I value them naturally as they are. I live contentedly in inner peace with myself, the Creator, you, and all of creation. This is the essence of truly knowing Him.

Summary

In summary, this article has examined the notion of self-awareness as the foremost form of consciousness. While some may hold the Creator in the highest regard, it is argued that one’s immediate experience is primarily of oneself, prior to any contemplation of the Creator. Even though it might seem as though God is an internal presence, He is, in fact, a separate entity.

The article encourages contemplation of several philosophical questions: Is God simply a concept? Does God actually exist? What evidence is there for or against His existence? Can belief in an afterlife be justified without concrete evidence in our current reality? These questions are profound, and this discussion provides enough material for thoughtful consideration.

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Yourself: Your First Awareness Level and Its Importance for Your Personal Development

Yourself

Become Better Aware of Yourself Today!

“Yourself” is an article crafted to encourage introspection, aimed specifically at you, the reader. It’s common to hear that we must change ourselves, often suggested with the best intentions. However, is self-transformation possible? Why should we aspire to be different from who we are? This piece invites you to delve into your true self and embrace who you are, just as you are.

What Do We Mean by Yourself?

Typically, when you speak of ‘you,’ it refers to your physical body, mind, emotions, thoughts, actions, and traits. Yet, even your soul or spirit is more accurately described as belonging to you, rather than being you. So, who are you? You are the sum of all these elements and more. You are a form of energy, a life force that cannot be created or destroyed except by your Creator.

Moreover, your Creator does not seem inclined to destroy you, despite the concept of hell’s fires. This is because if annihilation were possible, there would be no eternal suffering or torment in the lake of fire as described in the scriptures; anyone cast into it would perish eventually. Yet, it is said that those who are sent to hell will exist there forever, as will those who ascend to heaven.

Can you comprehend the magnitude of your existence? I am not suggesting you are a deity to be worshipped or to encourage others to do so. Rather, you and I are valuable and beloved. We are part of the greater whole, the Father of all spirits, the Creator and Maker of all that is known: God.

Your physical body is indeed your own. However, what distinguishes your thoughts and actions from others, including your parents and siblings, is your identity, your unique personality. Therefore, in discussions of self-discovery, we consider the essence behind your life or consciousness and recognize it as your true self.

The challenge lies in the fact that none of us truly knows what we look like in essence. How do we describe our spiritual selves without falling back on abstract thoughts and imaginations? This is the root of differing opinions between those who believe only in what they can physically verify and those who argue that there is more to existence than what we can see, touch, smell, taste, or hear.

In essence, your identity is what distinguishes you as unique and special, irrespective of your birthplace or upbringing, otherwise, you would be indistinguishable from others born and raised in the same locale. However, even identical twins are not exactly alike; they differ significantly in personality.

Some may claim they share identical thoughts, preferences, and aversions, but this is debatable, particularly if the twins are conscious of the inquiry’s intent. It’s important to remember that our responses are shaped by our perception of what is being asked, influencing the answers we give.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

Yourself: What Is Your Personality Type?

Many personality types can be categorized into specific sections and groups, yet each individual is unique. Generally, psychologists recognize that people can be classified as introverts or extroverts. Other perspectives on personality include the OCEAN model, which stands for Openness, Conscientiousness, Extroversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism. These traits have been extensively studied and validated, although individuals may respond to questionnaires in a manner that reflects their current preferences rather than a fixed personality type.

Do you usually concur with the majority on most issues? Are you inclined to explore places others may avoid, and do so solo? Can you easily voice your opinions in a group setting? Do you often feel anxious in certain scenarios, even when there’s no apparent reason? Reflecting on these questions can assist in determining your personality type according to the BIG FIVE model.

Indeed, as mentioned, it’s often easier to choose what seems appealing and beneficial in the moment, which is a natural human inclination. However, you can employ other methods to discern your core traits, such as reflecting on your persistent thoughts and expectations, observing others’ actions and words, and reading insightful articles. These approaches can illuminate your dominant characteristics, aiding in the identification of your personality type.

Understanding the complexity of human nature is challenging. Nevertheless, it is possible to pinpoint your personality type definitively, rather than repeatedly. You can then enhance your personality daily by engaging in thoughts, speech, and actions that resonate with your inherent nature and identity.

For instance, I have realized that I am inherently a person of peace. From childhood, I detested quarreling or engaging in fights with peers. I am averse to raising my voice and am sensitive to loud noises and strong scents. Disorder of any kind is displeasing to me; I prefer everything to be orderly. For example, I carefully use toothpaste without squeezing it from the top, as I consider that untidy. My affection for children is profound, yet their tendency to be noisy often leads me to raise my voice louder than theirs.

Therefore, I identify as an introverted empath. I avoid public events where emotional expressions are common. As a man hailing from Africa, societal norms discourage the public display of what may be perceived as negative or traditionally feminine emotions, even though I might feel deeply affected emotionally. Hence, I cherish solitude, engaging in contemplative activities or pursuits I enjoy, such as writing this article.

Yourself: How Did You Get Your Personality Type?

Human psychology suggests that our identity is shaped by both nature and nurture. I find myself leaning more towards nature. If we were solely products of our upbringing, we wouldn’t be as distinct and unique as we are. Yet, our uniqueness persists in our thoughts, speech, and actions, distinct even from peers in the same community.

Nevertheless, the impact of nurture and our environment, particularly during childhood, cannot be dismissed. The influence of my parents, the siblings I grew up with, and the memories of those who passed before I was born are indelible. At approximately 40 years old, not knowing my exact birth year—whether it was 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, or 1984—I reflect on these influences as the youngest in my family.

The names of childhood friends and acquaintances, places, and experiences remain with me. Despite this, I stand out from my siblings and childhood friends like Gatluak Jal (RIP), Chol Jal, Chuol Nyalam, Nyakor Kan Tap, Wiyual Duoth, Gatluak Deng Reth, among others. What distinguishes me is something intrinsic—my personality, life essence, spirit, soul, heart, or mind.

To me, terms like spirit, soul, heart, and mind converge on the same concept: the inner self, the non-material essence. Others may argue these are merely impressions and memories, but I see them as more than just remnants of past experiences. What I remember is not me, but belongs to me—not in a possessive sense, but as a part of my consciousness.

Essentially, your personality type is derived from your innate traits, while your beliefs and behaviors are significantly influenced by your upbringing and environment. Hence, the impact of social exposure, whether positive or negative, cannot be overlooked. Each family, clan, tribe, and nation exhibits specific and shared patterns of thought, a testament to the influence of social interaction.

To be candid, the concept of self-discovery is predominantly Western, as in Africa and the East, the emphasis is on socialism. In these cultures, the collective beliefs, thoughts, actions, and words of society take precedence over those of the individual. In my region, personal ownership of items like toothpaste, a toothbrush, or underwear is viewed as selfish.

In this context, sharing is a common practice, to the extent that someone may request your shirt with pride, regardless of their own possessions. This stems from the belief that one’s belongings are, by extension, communal. The act of eating from an individual plate is also considered selfish, as communal eating is the norm.

It may stem from ignorance, but there are times when some of us may need more food for certain reasons, and other times when we may prefer less. Similarly, one might choose to use an amount of green or red pepper that others may find excessive. Where, then, is personal freedom if we coerce ourselves into actions we don’t want to take, simply because the group desires it?

Having been raised with a different mindset, I neither rejoice excessively nor grieve deeply at someone’s passing. This is because, in our African traditions—not Christian or Islamic—I’ve learned that death is a part of life. I’ve seen people die from natural causes or violence. I understand that my time will come too, although I do not know when, where, or how.

This awareness that everything born will eventually die makes the news of death seem normal. It’s a reminder of my own mortality and prompts me to consider what I would regret having done or not done if I were the one who had died. Indeed, I believe I have a unique purpose to fulfill on this planet.

Yourself: How Do You Improve Your Discovered Self?

There are numerous ways to approach this, your way being one of them. Reading this article is certainly a step towards enhancing your self-awareness. Thus, cultivating a habit of reading is something you need to focus on, and eventually, you’ll notice significant self-improvement in your thoughts, words, and actions.

It’s important to remember that your core nature is immutable, and attempting to force a change can be deeply harmful, regardless of the intention. For this reason, the only path is to uncover and then incrementally enhance your discovered self, your personality type, your unique identity that is yours alone in this world.

Factors such as your environment, the food you consume, the water you drink, and the company you keep are all critically important in refining your personality type. It’s impossible to always find people who think, speak, and act just like you, but there will always be those whose company you enjoy.

On a personal note, I prefer to steer clear of certain discussions and debates. I’m not fond of playing cards or dominos, so if my friends who enjoy these activities go their way to partake, we part ways until we reconvene elsewhere. I find certain confrontational exchanges, where people challenge one another in negative and intimidating manners, to be particularly toxic, especially as an introvert and an empath.

Even though you may often find yourself surrounded by unavoidable people and events, particularly in South Sudan, I recommend focusing on personal development. It begins with self-discovery, which empowers you with the boldness, energy, and courage to candidly express your dislikes, doing so tactfully to avoid offending those who may enjoy these very things.

Remember, you have your own life to live, just as every other human being or creature has its own existence on this earth. Is this selfish? It could be considered selfish if it means disregarding others’ life choices. However, consider what’s preferable: living a life that isn’t yours or embracing your unique journey?

In my hometown, people relish gathering to discuss recent events, often those charged with emotions, insults, and disparagement of absent parties. I’ve detested such conversations since childhood.

Yet, this is the way of life here. In fact, if you suggest that people should not spend their entire day at tea places in Juba, they might demand you create jobs for them. They engage in this for hours, days, weeks, months, and years, considering it normal. As for me, I cherish my unique life, grateful for every person, event, place, and thing I encounter during my fleeting time on earth.

You also have a life to live, which can be lived to the glory of your Creator. If God intended for you to think, speak, and act collectively, He would have created you collectively, not as a distinct individual, unique from others. However, teamwork is beneficial, provided it does not compromise your life and personality.

Food and environment were mentioned earlier because they significantly impact your life. It’s unreasonable to expect a starving person, regardless of gender, to laugh heartily. The reason is simple: if they are truly famished, they will cry, not laugh.

Thus, food and environment play a crucial role in personality development. Your speech reflects your energy levels. Similarly, living in an extremely hot climate can make you appear more aggressive than you are. For instance, bees become more dangerous in hotter environments. Consider what actions you take daily to enhance your personality.

Summary

To summarize, the article suggests that what one might consider as ‘self’ could actually be a possession rather than a true identity. The essence of ‘you’ is described as the life and consciousness residing within your physical form. The article acknowledges the challenges in analyzing this ‘true self.’

It also touches upon personality types, their origins, and the potential for personal development. Now, it’s your opportunity to reflect on the content, gauge its relevance to you, and consider how you might apply this knowledge. Your thoughts and feedback on this article are welcome in the comments section below. Shalom!

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Living Things: What They Are and Their Importance for Your Personal Development

Living Things

Learn How to Relate and Work with Living Things

“Living Things” is an article designed to enhance our understanding of ourselves as organisms, elucidate our significance, and explore our interactions and connections with other living entities in our world and the universe. It delves into the essence of living things and their importance, including our own roles. This article aims to address these fundamental questions.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

What Are Living Things?

“A living thing pertains to any organism or a life form that possesses or shows the characteristics of life or being alive.” ~ Biology Online.

There are many excellent English definitions for this term, but in this context, living things are the opposite of nonliving things as discussed in the previous article. This is because nonliving things cannot breathe, move, eat, grow, or reproduce; living things can do all these and more. Additionally, living things are composed of cells, whereas nonliving things consist only of elements.

If you are reading this and you are human, then you are a living thing. If you are a robot, then you are a nonliving thing. There are countless examples of living things, including humans and other organisms. This distinction is important when we discuss internal and external relationships.

Internal relationships pertain to the relationship between an individual and themselves, their inner being, and their connection with God or the concept of the supernatural. External relationships, on the other hand, involve interactions between an individual and other humans, as well as between an individual and other organisms, which are, in this context, other living things.

I inhabit a world where a majority of people, about 90%, throw stones at cats and dogs at any given opportunity. It deeply saddens me to witness such cruel acts. It brings to mind the biblical depiction of human nature as inherently sinful. Some individuals even go as far as to hit dogs with their vehicles on purpose as they drive by.

Recently, a dog that had been friendly to me since its birth was killed. I had come to know him through his mother, who seemed to understand my affection for her. Whenever she came to check on him in the grass, my smile would always greet her. This formed a bond with the dog’s family. Whenever I passed by, the young dog would chase after me in greeting or make his presence known.

He truly was my best friend, and I believe he would have defended me if someone else had attacked me in his presence. I never provided him with food or drink, yet his affection was unmistakable. Such living beings possess a profound level of consciousness and awareness. They are sentient, not inanimate. But now, my friend is gone, and although I can touch his teeth, he feels nothing.

What Is the Importance of Living Things?

As illustrated previously, creatures other than humans can be quite friendly and helpful, making them significant to us as well. The dog I encountered was not mine, nor do I know if it had an owner. Nevertheless, we interacted amicably, simply because we are both living organisms, despite our differences.

Living entities are crucial precisely because we are among them. We are living organisms; we exist and have life. Dogs, too, have their own existence, and it’s not only humans that are referred to as beings, contrary to what some educators might assert. Yet, there are times when living things can become detrimental to us, losing their importance or utility.

Microbes like bacteria, viruses, and parasites are all single-celled living organisms. What about worms, insects, plants, birds, animals, fish, amphibians, and reptiles? All are living beings. They can be either very important or very harmful. Not all microbes are adversaries; many reside within your body. Frankly, you serve as a habitat for various living organisms.

Our personal worldviews shape our perception of the importance of everything in this world, including other living creatures and organisms. For me, and for those like me who are introverted empaths, all living things hold great significance. They are living beings that can assist us in various ways.

Even if some creatures are harmful to us, it doesn’t diminish their importance. They remain significant to their Creator, and to our Creator. Whether or not I believe in this Creator, these creatures are evidence of His or Her existence. They are living proof that God exists and created them for His own reasons.

Who are we to judge the worth of these creatures? Do we comprehend the role of a housefly, or the purpose of a mosquito? Ignorance blinds us to the value of these small beings. Despite their potential to cause illness and death, they have a role in the ecosystem. Investigate this perspective for yourself, and you’ll be surprised. Nothing on Earth exists without purpose.

Thus, both living and nonliving things have a definitive purpose, contributing to their ultimate roles and significance on Earth. My lack of understanding does not measure their importance; they are inherently significant. They occupy their own spaces and serve their purposes on this planet.

How Do You Relate with Living Things?

Indeed, as previously mentioned, these creatures are beings, just like you and I. They are living organisms capable of breathing, moving, crying, growing, eating, and reproducing. Similarly, we humans eat, move, grow, and reproduce; otherwise, neither you nor I would be here today, writing and reading these articles.

Our relationship with other living entities is profound and essential. But what is the nature of this relationship? We connect with them physically, and sometimes mentally and emotionally, because many living things exhibit emotions as they adapt to or react to their environment and the events within it.

Now, consider how you personally relate to other creatures. This question is directed both at you and at me. Our responses may vary depending on whether we hold individualistic or collectivistic worldviews. An article on this website discusses these perspectives, which essentially differentiate between finding meaning individually or as a group.

I embody both individualistic and collectivist traits. This stems from my upbringing in a village where collective thought, speech, and action were directed towards the welfare of the family, clan, or tribe. However, exposure to Western literature, which often champions individualism, has led me to appreciate the philosophy that one’s life is their own.

From a collectivist perspective, I exist for others, for you. Yet, does this extend to all living beings, regardless of their nature? My individualistic stance allows me to lead a life defined by personal choice, granting me the liberty to reject familial or tribal beliefs that I find superstitious or obsolete.

Nonetheless, irrespective of our inclination towards individualism or collectivism, we inevitably interact with other life forms in myriad ways, some beyond our current understanding. Taking time to reflect on these interactions can enrich our lives in profound ways.

How Do You Work with Living Things?

Indeed, the nature of work in question is crucial. Generally, we may either utilize living organisms or collaborate with them. Reflecting on my early life in the 1990s, I often went hunting accompanied by my dogs. They were not only companions but also instrumental in tracking and capturing game for food. We worked in unison, a team in true essence.

To work ‘with’ and to ‘use’ are distinct concepts in this context. Here, we emphasize collaboration with living beings, encompassing all forms of life, from microbes, worms, insects, reptiles, amphibians, fish, plants, birds, to mammals.

Considering how to collaborate with living entities as partners, they could be human or otherwise. This perspective invites you to contemplate unique methods of partnership with these organisms. When working with animals, it’s about understanding and fostering teamwork.

From ancient times to the present, hunting with dogs remains a common practice. People continue to till the land using oxen, and many other tasks are accomplished with the aid of animals, side by side with humans. In this regard, it can be said that there is a partnership at work. While humans may be utilizing these animals, both parties strive towards a common objective, thus collaborating.

In various capacities, I collaborate with humans, both individually and collectively. Similarly, I interact with other animals in my own unique ways. For instance, I have a fondness for dogs and cats and have developed my own distinctive methods of communication with them, which might seem odd or even inconceivable to many due to their backgrounds or inherent dispositions.

Summary

To summarize, this article has provided insights into the nature of living organisms, their significance to us both individually and collectively, and how we can engage with them as partners in life. It has also explored the varied perspectives individuals hold due to factors such as nature and nurture.

I hope you have found this article beneficial. If so, I would appreciate your feedback in the comments section below. Are you already in tune with other creatures? What new information have you gleaned from this article? May the end of 2022 bring peace and harmony to you and your loved ones. This is my heartfelt wish for you. Shalom!

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Nonliving Things: What They Are and Their Importance for Personal Development

Learn How to Work and Relate with Nonliving Things Today!

“Nonliving Things” is an article designed to elucidate the concept of nonliving things, their significance, and our interaction with them. It aims to demonstrate our reliance on nonliving things, akin to our dependence on one another. The article seeks to clarify the definition and role of nonliving things in our lives. What exactly constitutes nonliving things?

What Are Nonliving Things?

Many English dictionaries attempt to define the term “nonliving,” but I propose defining it as something that is lifeless, like an object or a stone, for instance. Anything incapable of movement, consumption, reproduction, or growth is considered nonliving. However, should lifeless objects be deemed nonliving? Are stones, wood, and sand as inert as we believe?

My responses to these seemingly foolish questions may surprise you, but I’ll keep it straightforward. In our conventional human understanding, these indeed serve as prime examples of nonliving entities, according to our knowledge and comprehension. I choose not to contest this, as it would only complicate matters.

For the moment, within our current level of understanding, let’s agree or assume that the aforementioned definition is sufficient and accurate. Our physical bodies will be categorized as nonliving the moment life departs from us, which could occur at any moment, possibly even before I manage to publish this article.

But here’s an odd and incredible fact: nonliving things are composed of the same elements as you and me in every known aspect. We are all made of atoms, right? Yet, possessing some form of consciousness signifies life, thereby disqualifying one from being a nonliving entity. I trust you grasp my point, leading to the next topic of this article: the significance of nonliving things.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

Why Are Nonliving Things Important?

It all depends on the type of nonliving things we’re discussing. Some nonliving things hold great importance for us, as well as for animals. Generally, all nonliving things have their significance, whether for humans or other creatures. If they’re not useful as food, they may serve purposes in locomotion, habitation, or concealment.

Most living things reside within nonliving things. Caves served as homes in ancient times before humans learned to construct their own shelters, highlighting their importance. Similarly, mountains, mounds, and bodies of water provide habitats for various living entities like worms, insects, fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and other animals.

Water, though not a living entity, is crucial for our survival, not just for fish and other aquatic organisms. It houses numerous life forms, including microbes, which can be either beneficial or detrimental to us when we encounter them.

How Do You Work with Nonliving Things?

This depends on the nonliving things in question. We interact with numerous nonliving things daily. My computer, for instance, is not alive, yet it behaves as if it possesses a brain, as if it can think. However, by the definition of life, it is considered an inanimate object.

I’ve provided a prime example with the computer on how we utilize nonliving things. Are there other examples? Certainly, there are many. But should we refer to these interactions as ‘working with’ or ‘using’ them? I use these terms deliberately because nonliving things are integral and significant. They are a part of our world and, in a sense, a part of us.

Consider my spectacles; they are not alive, but I wouldn’t say I’m ‘working with’ them when I use them, would I? Actually, I would argue that I am, as I owe them gratitude after a long day. They are, in a way, my partners. This perspective is personal, but it resonates with others who share this view.

Indeed, we do work with nonliving things. My phone, for example, serves me well. It’s not alive, but it’s a reliable companion. Thus, it’s fair to say I work with it. I rely on technology and its tools for living, learning, teaching, and providing services. I make a living through technologies like banking systems, as I get paid for the services I render.

Whether I’m publishing a book on Amazon or creating a website for a business, people often use technology to compensate me for my services, such as PayPal or Payoneer. When I translate or interpret, the payment is also made through technological means, varying with the client’s location globally.

Boosting posts, fan pages, websites, generating likes, followers, or sales for a Facebook page, all involve clients paying me through technology. Even when I install, update, or upgrade software, the payment is processed using technological platforms. Indeed, even direct bank deposits involve technology, not just e-Banking.

Thus, if I earn my living through technology, it means technology is working for and with me. When I use technology for learning—watching videos, reading blog posts, taking online courses, or engaging in live chats with teachers—I am collaborating with technology. Similarly, when I use technology to teach or share information, technology and I are partners in that endeavor. This is how I integrate technology into my service delivery.

How Do You Relate with Nonliving Things?

In essence, what similarities do we share with inanimate objects? This topic was touched upon earlier in the article, focusing on our physical composition and properties. Although we may not relish the idea of having commonalities with these lifeless entities, it appears to be a universally accepted concept. We acknowledged that we are composed of tiny particles known as atoms.

These atoms function identically in both living and nonliving entities, assuming that natural science is as accurate as we believe. All these minuscule particles possess some form of energy and structure, which remains active even in objects deemed lifeless or inert. Atoms consist of protons, electrons, and neutrons, and all these components synergistically contribute to an atom’s stability.

Is it possible to consider that we originated from inanimate matter and that we will eventually return to it? Could there be a connection between us and lifeless elements like stones or soil? Contemplate this for a moment. My parents consumed food, which was transformed into hormones, then into cells, and at the precise moment, these cells formed my initial single cell, containing all my genetic information.

It’s fascinating to consider that I began as an inanimate object. Thus, I was, I am, and I will once again become soil, regardless of the burial method chosen. Even the most ornate coffins will decay and merge with the soil eventually. We are meant to return to the earth because that is our essence. We are merely dust, and yet, this dust holds great significance to us, even as living entities.

As an introverted empath, I sense a connection with many things. But is it just me, or is it a natural principle that everything is interconnected? Aren’t we bound to inanimate objects by unseen ties? Is our understanding limited to what our five senses can perceive? These are intriguing questions to ponder. It appears that we are inextricably linked to everything in the universe, whether or not this aligns with my personal beliefs.

Summary

In summary, this article has enlightened us on numerous aspects of nonliving things, their significance to us, and our interactions with them, both individually and collectively. Our perspective of the world is shaped by two principal factors: nature and nurture. These elements define our essence.

Owing to the influences of my nature and nurture, I perceive nonliving things to be just as vital as living things because they are an integral part of our existence, and we are interconnected with them in various ways. Our relationship with nonliving things is multifaceted. They are indispensable to us, the living beings.

I trust this article has been informative and beneficial to you. If it has, I would be delighted to receive your feedback in the comments section below. Shalom!

Further Readings

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Personalities: What They Are and Their Importance for Your Personal Development

Personalities

Individuals exhibit a wide array of personalities, and there are compelling reasons for this diversity. Psychology suggests that personalities arise from a combination of innate traits and environmental influences. This article will explore the concept of personality, its origins, the significance of individuality, and the impact of personality on personal and professional growth. So, what exactly is a personality? Read on to find out.

What Is a Personality?

Personality encompasses a blend of thoughts, expressions, actions, and behaviors, forming what the Oxford English Dictionary describes as “the combination of characteristics or qualities that create an individual’s distinctive character.”

These traits are referred to as a person’s personality or character. There’s a debate whether nature precedes nurture, or vice versa. I subscribe to the former because if nurture were predominant, then individuals raised in the same family and environment would share identical personalities.

It appears that personality is shaped by what might be considered the software aspect of human nature, often referred to as the spirit, soul, heart, or mind. This facet distinguishes me, rendering me unique among my siblings, despite us sharing the same womb and upbringing in the same household by the same parents.

A person’s personality shapes how they interact with others. Their thoughts, words, and actions are directly influenced by their personality type. This distinguishes them from others, including siblings from the same parents.

I hold the view that the Creator influences Creation, which in turn shapes the Creature (us), which then defines Nature (human nature), which then informs the Mind (human mind), and this governs our feelings, thoughts, words, and actions—our personalities.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

How Do People Get Their Personalities?

It is commonly held that personalities are shaped by both nature and nurture. This suggests that individuals inherit traits from their biological parents, grandparents, and relatives. Conversely, nurture refers to the influence of the environment on behavior and development, also known as upbringing.

Both nature and nurture significantly impact personality and character. The debate over whether nature or nurture has greater influence is ongoing. In my view, they operate in tandem, though nature may have the initial influence.

Despite our inherited differences, the role of nurture cannot be overlooked. My thought processes are influenced by those I grew up with. Legally identified as Dinka but biologically Nuer, I was born and raised in Nuer lands, moving to Dinka territory at 18. Consequently, I think, speak, and act in ways characteristic of the Nuer, reflecting not tribal identity but the power of social influence and shared thought patterns among those who live in close proximity.

Similarly, if a black African child is raised by a white American family, they will likely adopt American ways of thinking, speaking, and acting. This is attributed to the significant role nurture plays in shaping an individual’s personality, a fact that cannot be ignored.

Many South Sudanese children born and raised in the US speak with an American accent. The same is true for those born in the UK; they may have a British accent, though they are biologically Dinka or Nuer. Their accents and thought processes are influenced by their upbringing rather than their biological heritage.

Nevertheless, personality traits can transcend culture. Individuals often share perspectives regardless of their birthplace or upbringing, suggesting that nature has a precedence over nurture. Certain aspects, such as physical appearance and voice quality, are biologically inherited and remain unaffected by nurture.

However, the accent of one’s language is shaped by nurture and upbringing, while the tone of voice is innate. It may even resemble that of distant ancestors, indicating a genetic, natural origin, rather than one shaped by nurture.

The Importance of Personalities

Personalities are crucial because they prevent the world from descending into chaos. It’s personalities, rather than appearances, that distinguish people, making them unique and special. Without individual personalities, all humans would think, speak, and act identically, leading to immense conflict.

This implies that no two individuals are exactly alike in character, affirming the importance of each person. Even those who seem to thrive on causing trouble have their place in our lives, and we may find ourselves needing them at times. Some of my relatives may not appreciate my personality, but that is their prerogative. I cannot transform into someone I am not, nor can I recreate or redesign myself. I am who I am, capable of doing what I can and having what I may. Similarly, you are already who you are; your task is to discover yourself.

In the realm of personal development, your personality is significant. It distinguishes you from others and is vitally important to those around you. Your uniqueness stems from your soul/spirit, not your physical form. In my experience, because I speak the truth from my heart, many relatives deem me foolish. Their opinions do not trouble me, as I understand myself better than they presume. Some label me as crazy, which I accept, for I differ from them due to various factors, including education and nature.

Your Personal and Professional Development

Personal development involves self-discovery and self-improvement, while professional development pertains to advancing one’s career. Personality significantly influences both personal and professional growth. Initially, one must identify their true self. Subsequently, they should enhance this self-awareness through various methods.

Additionally, it is essential to determine one’s life career and diligently work towards its enhancement, known as career discovery and improvement. I have authored and released four concise booklets on Personal and Professional Development, available on Amazon.

With divine guidance, I have realized my identity and found serenity. Likewise, I have pinpointed my vocation: teaching. To teach effectively, I must learn; to learn authentically, I must lead a fulfilling life. Through living, learning, and teaching, I serve others, embodying both personal and professional development. What about you? Are you aware of your fundamental values? They define your identity and personality type.

Summary

By now, we’ve explored personalities, their origins, their significance in our lives, and the ways to foster personal and professional growth. The question remains: what do we do with this knowledge? Action is necessary. For instance, understanding your personality type is a key aspect of self-discovery and personal development. It’s presumed that you’ve learned to analyze your personality and comprehend its importance.

Recognizing your identity is the first step towards discovering your purpose, which aligns with your career. It’s my belief that everyone has a unique reason for being here. Finding and living according to that purpose is a personal journey. I trust this article has been beneficial to you. I encourage you to share your insights in the comments section below. Your contributions are valuable to me and other readers. May you and your loved ones be blessed and remain safe during and beyond the global pandemic. Shalom!

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