Author: John Monyjok Maluth

Understanding Is Your #2 Key to a Meaningful Life

Understanding is an article designed to elucidate the concept of understanding, the methods by which we acquire it, its applications, and its significance in our interpersonal relationships and beyond. This article delves into the second key to leading a meaningful life on Earth and beyond. With that introduction, let’s proceed to read the entire article to begin our exploration.

WHAT IS AN UNDERSTANDING?

In this article, ‘understanding’ refers to comprehending what we read, hear, or view. It’s the second key to a meaningful life, with the first being attentive listening. We listen to understand others, whether through video, audio, or text.

Yet, do we grasp the intended meaning of what we read, hear, or watch? Answering these questions is crucial to truly grasp the concept of understanding.

‘Misunderstanding’ is the antithesis of understanding, but often they coexist. When I misunderstand, I may not realize it and believe I fully understand. Is it possible you’re experiencing this as you read? Do you truly grasp the essence of understanding?

Understanding others as we wish to be understood is vital. Communication, in any form, hinges on mutual comprehension between sender and receiver. Without understanding, we fall into misunderstanding. Let’s explore how to achieve the understanding we seek.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

HOW DO WE GET THE UNDERSTANDING?

This question may seem complex, but it’s one I often encounter from my readers, both online and offline. They’re essentially asking about the origins of human understanding, right? Let’s tackle this question. Our understanding stems from two primary sources: our innate nature and our upbringing, or nurture.

By nature, some individuals may not pay close attention, leading to poor listening skills or becoming easily distracted, which results in misunderstandings or a failure to comprehend the speaker.

Conversely, there are those who are naturally attentive listeners, which facilitates their understanding of various matters. To some extent, we all possess these traits. The second avenue through which we gain understanding is through our education in comprehension.

Even if we’re not inherently adept at understanding others, we can learn to improve this skill. This is why I write articles like this one, to impart knowledge to you and others through digital means.

WHAT DO WE USE UNDERSTANDING FOR?

Understanding is utilized for gaining knowledge. It enables us to comprehend the information we receive, analyze it, and then apply it for our advantage. You employ your understanding to read this and act upon its suggestions for beneficial use. Whether you grasp the text as intended or not is secondary; what matters is that you understand and utilize it, which is preferable to not doing so.

The desire to be understood naturally increases our desire to understand others. This is a reciprocal process. We aim to comprehend other humans and seek their understanding in return. Misunderstandings are a significant source of conflict, both on a personal and interpersonal level. They lead to disputes within families and between families, as well as among clans.

Misunderstandings were even cited as the cause of the South Sudanese Civil Wars, originating from a simple miscommunication within the SPLM, the ruling political party of the nation at the time. Thus, misunderstandings can escalate to problems at any societal level, causing tribal, national, and international conflicts.

However, with understanding, many, if not all, of these conflicts could be averted before they begin. This is how understanding is used to prevent unnecessary conflicts at any level, whether personal or interpersonal. Hopefully, you can now appreciate a few of the reasons and applications of understanding in our lives. We even use understanding to comprehend ourselves.

WHAT’S THE IMPORTANCE OF UNDERSTANDING?

Is our human understanding significant? This is a question I often receive, and it makes me ponder what the asker truly seeks to understand. However, I’ve realized that no question is foolish. So, let’s address it. What is the significance of understanding? As illustrated above, understanding’s utility also highlights the importance of comprehending ourselves and others.

If I could fully grasp who I am, I would lead a life filled with meaning, peace, and harmony, both with myself and others. I refer to self-understanding as self-discovery because it involves uncovering our true selves. We cannot create, recreate, alter, or modify our nature. We can only discover and enhance ourselves, which means we must first understand our true selves before we can improve our identities.

When we understand ourselves on an individual level, we are more likely to understand those around us. But how do we begin to understand ourselves? For me, self-understanding comes from reflecting and examining my life from various perspectives, including my past. I consider my previous thoughts, words, and deeds to truly understand who I am today, rather than who I will become tomorrow. Another method to deeply know myself is to consider what God has said about humanity in His scripture.

By understanding ourselves as the Creator does, we can view other humans through the same lens: as God’s creations. Just as we view ourselves, we can perceive others, and even other living beings beyond humanity. We can observe birds, insects, plants, fish, animals, and all creation in the same light: as made by God.

MY FINAL WORDS

Having explored the concept of understanding, we’ve established that it stems from two sources: nature and nurture. We’ve examined the role of human understanding in learning about ourselves and our environment. This leads to the realization that we must apply this knowledge in our lives, both individually and collectively.

It is my hope that the article on Understanding has been beneficial to you. I invite you to share your thoughts in the comments section below. Your feedback is greatly valued for this and future articles. May God protect you and your loved ones during and beyond the global pandemic. Peace be with you.

FURTHER READINGS

• Definition of Understanding—Wikipedia.
• The Importance of Understanding—Lifehack.
• What Is Understanding?—Idtheory.

Listening Is Your #1 Key to a Meaningful Life!

“Listening” is an article designed to teach you the essence of attentive listening, the methods of effective listening, the reasons behind listening, and its significance in today’s world. The article delves into the first of four keys to a fulfilling life. As one of these keys, it offers insights into achieving a life of meaning. With this introduction, delve further into the article to uncover the insights it presents.

WHAT IS LISTENING?

In this article, I define listening as attentive listening, a rare skill since we humans are not all naturally inclined to listen in the same way. Some may possess this skill innately, but generally, we listen attentively only when necessary. For instance, you might listen to me as you read this article, depending on what you expect to gain from it.

However, it appears that we often fail to pay close attention to many aspects of life, even the most crucial ones. Despite nature being fundamental, I believe that cultivating the habit of careful listening is beneficial, regardless of our natural predispositions. As noted earlier, our attentiveness often arises out of necessity.

Attentive listening fosters understanding, which in turn leads to knowledge, and ultimately to wisdom. This is why attentive listening is the initial step towards a meaningful existence. It underscores the importance of learning to listen more than we speak. Indeed, we communicate in silence; we speak even when we are merely gazing at the speaker.

But attentive listening goes beyond using our ears; it involves listening with our hearts. ‘Heart’ here can also refer to the spirit or soul, sometimes used to describe our inner self. Our ears are merely physical receptors, similar to our eyes. To truly grasp a message, it must resonate within us. The mind is another term that aligns with heart, soul, and spirit.

Thus, attentive listening entails engaging with our entire being. It’s about striving to comprehend the message conveyed through any medium—be it written, performed, or spoken. In a video, for example, we must watch, listen, and interpret, which is why it’s challenging not to be influenced by what we consume. To learn more about nurturing our inner selves, continue reading here.

HOW DO WE LISTEN?

What techniques should we employ to listen attentively? There are two primary methods: one is innate, and the other is acquired. As previously stated, some individuals are naturally attentive listeners, remaining focused even when the communication may not contain important content. They listen intently because it is part of their nature. However, we can also learn to listen effectively, which is the purpose of this article—to teach us to listen attentively to almost anything. The technique employed here is self-discipline, which can be inherent but can also be developed even if not present from birth.

At times, we fail to comprehend because we pre-judge the communication as unworthy. Yet, I believe we can glean something valuable from any piece of information, and the optimal way to learn is by listening with both heart and mind. Communication can take various forms, such as audio, video, or text. It is our responsibility to make every effort to understand it.

Consider this: maturity develops through trial and error. It’s through extensive research that I’ve learned to distinguish what’s important from what’s not. I’ve realized that I no longer need to engage with certain content, having understood that it’s more detrimental than beneficial. However, when starting out, it’s crucial to expose oneself to a wide array of information.

There’s content I dislike, such as tribal songs that may insult or glorify negative figures within a community. Yet, I wouldn’t advise against listening to them, as there’s always something to glean from these songs. They’re not inherently evil; they convey insights into the thoughts, speech, and actions of past generations. Having been immersed in it before, I recognize why it’s no longer necessary for me.

The essence lies in the manner of listening. We listen because it’s a natural ability, and we’ve come to understand the significance of listening well. For some, there must be a compelling reason to listen. Since there’s always a reason, we must listen—and do so with full attention.

WHAT’S THE USE OF LISTENING?

The fundamental purpose of listening is to gain understanding. This understanding, in turn, leads to knowledge, which is indispensable to everyone. Knowledge comes in various forms, be it physical or spiritual, but all knowledge is valuable, irrespective of its type. Thus, the act of listening attentively is employed to gain knowledge from what we hear or read. We listen to words that are spoken, performed, or written down. Listening is the pursuit of comprehension, and we listen as a means to understand and to be understood.

For those among us with hearing impairments, listening involves observing actions, such as sign language. This is how they watch the news and comprehend what is being communicated. Therefore, listening extends beyond the mere use of ears.

When we listen, we engage our minds and hearts. This is why, in my native language, words carry more power and description than in English or Arabic. In these languages, it is not possible to speak or convey feelings to the heart as effectively as one can in their mother tongue.

Listening is beneficial, particularly when the content is advantageous in any respect. However, even if what we listen to isn’t particularly special or helpful, the practice of attentive listening is necessary. Without it, we might eventually become resistant to listening to even the most crucial matters. Since listening is instrumental for acquiring both knowledge and wisdom, it is a skill we must cultivate frequently.

WHAT’S THE IMPORTANCE OF LISTENING?

Attentive listening is crucial, as it ensures we don’t miss vital information we might need. For instance, poor listening during a lecture or life coaching session can result in missing important advice. It’s essential to listen to those more experienced than us when they speak.

However, attentive listening isn’t only beneficial when receiving guidance from life coaches and teachers; it’s equally important for these professionals to listen to their clients to fully understand their situations. Listening is vital for all involved parties.

In relationships, attentive listening benefits both partners. A man should listen and strive to understand his wife, and vice versa. Often, men may overlook women’s concerns, deeming them trivial. However, since these issues are significant to women, it’s advisable for men to listen attentively and share their perspectives afterwards.

Often, women are not seeking a solution but rather need to be listened to. While men may approach issues with a problem-solving mindset, this isn’t always what women are looking for. This difference can lead to misunderstandings; men may seek a quick solution, whereas women may want their concerns to be acknowledged repeatedly. This can be frustrating for men who feel they have already addressed the issue and are eager to resolve it.

Attentive listening is not just an interpersonal skill; it’s also about being in tune with oneself. People often converse with themselves more than they realize, reflecting with their inner self. Attentive listening is also a spiritual practice, as individuals engage in silent dialogue with God. It extends to family interactions and can be crucial during one-on-one meetings, within and between clans, tribes, and even political parties.

Attentive listening is a part of life, present in settings like schools and often occurring without our conscious awareness. However, its significance means we should intentionally cultivate it. By doing so, we can develop the listening skills necessary for deep understanding, which paves the way to knowledge and ultimately wisdom. A life lived with wisdom is inherently meaningful.

MY FINAL WORDS

These final words serve as my concluding thoughts on this article. You are now acquainted with what attentive listening entails, the mechanics of listening, its applications, and its significance. The next step is to apply this knowledge in practice.

Perfection is achieved through practice in any endeavor. This delineates the gap between theoretical understanding and specialized, practical knowledge. You may have discovered that attentive listening is an innate aspect of your personality. If not, it is a skill that can be learned and honed to enhance one’s character.

It is my hope that this article on Listening has been beneficial to you on a personal level. If it has, I encourage you to share your reflections in the comments section below. I extend my prayers and best wishes for the health and safety of you and your loved ones, during and beyond the global pandemic. Shalom!

FURTHER READINGS

• Types of Listening—Lumen Learning.
• Listening Skills—Skills You Need.
• What Is Listening?—English Club.

Learning WordPress Is a Career That Will Change Your Life Forever!

26^th July 2021

This article is designed to educate you about WordPress, a Content Management System (CMS), its functionalities, how to utilize it, and its significance in career development. Through this article, you will be introduced to a new career path that has the potential to transform your life. In today’s technologically driven society, acquiring such skills is highly beneficial for both personal and professional growth. With this in mind, let’s delve directly into the article.

WHAT IS WORDPRESS?

WordPress is renowned for being an open-source software and one of the most user-friendly content management systems globally. It’s excellent for web design and so intuitive that nearly anyone with basic computer skills can utilize it. With WordPress, you can create both free and premium websites and blogs.

The distinction between wordpress.com and wordpress.org is notable; the former offers free tools, while the latter is a paid version of the software. If you’re just starting and lack the budget for annual website expenses, the free blog option provided by wordpress.com is ideal.

However, if you require greater control over your content, the paid version allows you to enhance your website with additional functionalities. Free blogs do not permit the addition of plugins, which are instrumental in incorporating features like shopping carts, mailing lists, and other essential marketing tools and services.

Moreover, a free domain name does not allow for a personalized domain like www.johnshalom.com. With a complimentary site or blog, your URL will resemble www.discipleshippress.wordpress.com, indicating that you are operating under WordPress’s domain. In this scenario, WordPress hosts your site and has the authority over its management. Website hosting refers to the storage of your files on a server.

WHAT DO WE DO WITH WORDPRESS?

Now that you’re familiar with WP, let’s discuss its applications. As previously mentioned, this software is used to create websites or blogs. You have the option to use either the free or paid versions of the tools. Regardless of your profession, you may find yourself in need of a specific type of website.

As a writer and author, owning my domain was essential, but I began with a free one, which I still utilize for my imprint company, Discipleship Press. Later, I acquired a personal domain for my writing business and career, which is www.johnshalom.com.

Indeed, WP can be used to create various types of websites. If you’re a blogger, for instance, you’ll need a platform to write and publish your posts, which could be a free blog at www.wordpress.com or a paid one at www.wordpress.org.

In essence, this tool is instrumental in establishing an online presence to connect with your audience and potential customers through a website or blog.

Related: Technology Ultimate Guide

HOW DO WE USE WORDPRESS?

The “how” question differs significantly from the “what” question mentioned earlier. We’re looking to understand the actual process of using WordPress to create a blog or website, be it free or paid. To do this, certain steps must be followed. There are numerous excellent tutorials on YouTube that guide you through starting a blog or website with WordPress in just minutes. I suggest www.wpbeginner.com as an excellent starting point.

Before you visit that site, let’s consider what’s needed to start a website or blog. Initially, you should determine the focus of your blog. For instance, if you’re a writer, what topics ignite your passion? There are various types of writers, after all. Personally, I specialize in educational and motivational content, aiming to enlighten my readers on issues that matter to me.

This means I concentrate on topics I’m passionate about, which also lends me a degree of expertise in my writing domain. Similarly, you can carve out your niche in writing and set your own objectives before launching a blog or website. While it’s not necessary to plan out every detail you intend to share on your blog, many advise that having a plan is an effective way to begin.

Once you’ve decided on the main focus of your blog or website, you can opt for either a free or paid domain. Setting up a free domain is straightforward: simply visit www.wordpress.com, create an account, and confirm your email to activate it. After that, you can publish your first post, select a theme, customize it, and your site will be set.

For a paid website, I recommend visiting www.bluehost.com (where an affiliate link is provided), and selecting a hosting plan. This will involve paying for server space to store your text, images, and other media. During this process, you’ll choose a custom domain and follow the instructions provided.

Once complete, install WordPress from your Bluehost Dashboard to begin adding posts, pages, themes, plugins, and various tools as needed. I plan to write a detailed post on installing WordPress plugins and themes later. However, if you require immediate assistance with these, please reach out in the comments below or use the chat button at the bottom of the page (Facebook Messenger) to start a conversation.

WHAT’S THE IMPORTANCE OF WORDPRESS?

For bloggers eager to share their work globally, WordPress stands as the premier tool. While other CMS software exists, WordPress excels in various aspects. It’s SEO-friendly, designed to enhance visibility on search engines like Google, Bing, and Yahoo. Its widespread use and endorsement by leading web hosting services speak to its numerous advantages.

WordPress is not only user-friendly but also maintains a professional standard. It provides all necessary tools, which users can master quickly, underscoring its significance for bloggers and writers. Exploring further may reveal additional reasons why WordPress is an optimal choice for web design projects.

Should you require assistance in creating a personal website, I offer a range of services. For instance, the Basic Pack allows you to establish a professional, secure website starting at $50/year, covering all essentials for a personal site. Other options include the Personal Pack at $100/year and the Premium Pack at $200/year.

For those seeking to sell products and services securely or requiring top-tier security, the Business Pack at $300/year represents the pinnacle of my website creation offerings. More details on each plan are available through the provided link.

MY FINAL WORDS

Now that you understand what WordPress is, its uses, how to operate it, and its significance, it’s time to decide your next steps. By following the guidance in this article, you can create your website or blog within minutes. For more detailed information, feel free to ask, or use the additional links provided in the article to explore unfamiliar topics.

Therefore, my advice is to act now. As Napoleon Hill said, “Knowledge is only potential power.” It becomes powerful when specialized and applied. You’re now equipped to apply the knowledge gained from this article.

I hope you found the article on WordPress beneficial. Please share your thoughts in the comments section below; your feedback is highly valued and will help me improve. I look forward to hearing from you via chat. May God bless and protect you and your loved ones during this global pandemic. Shalom!

FURTHER READINGS

• What Is WordPress? Explained for Beginners—Kinsta.
• What Is a Content Management System?—Kinsta.

Will Humans Ever Live in Peace Here on Earth?

“Peace” is an article designed to guide you in understanding its meaning, the ways to achieve it, what to do once attained, and its significance globally. The article addresses these crucial questions, and by the end, you will have a deeper understanding and appreciation of peace. Now, let’s delve further into the subject.

WHAT IS IT?

Peace signifies a period when humans and animals coexist in unity and harmony, without engaging in violence or causing harm to one another. It represents the absence of war and conflict among individuals or groups. It embodies prosperity, justice, and freedom, bringing along numerous other positive aspects. It is a topic the world often discusses, yet one must ponder whether humans are truly peaceful or capable of sustaining peace over time.

Peace transcends mere conflict avoidance; it encompasses a broader significance. While people might engage in minor disputes or conflicts for justifiable reasons, peace involves resolving such disagreements. It entails local production of goods and food, and the ability to trade products and services without the threat of harm or violence.

It also means having the liberty to express oneself freely, to write or speak one’s thoughts without external dictation, provided it is done peacefully. It includes the freedom to make choices according to one’s preferences, without coercion. It allows for the development of personal beliefs and opinions on any subject, including politics.

However, an excess of anything can be detrimental. Excessive freedom can pose risks both individually and collectively. This is evident in capitalist societies where individuals may exploit public resources for personal advantage. In such contexts, peace does not equate to unrestrained action, particularly when it inflicts harm on others, whether physically, mentally, spiritually, or psychologically.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

HOW DO WE GET IT?

How, then, do we achieve peace? There are numerous paths to peace, mirroring the various levels at which conflict exists. Our focus should be on personal peace: how does one find peace within oneself, with God, and with others? This question simplifies the issue to a manageable scope.

Interpersonal peace is also crucial. It encompasses our relationship with God, with one another, and with all of creation, including non-human entities. To summarize, peace exists within oneself, with God, with fellow humans, and with all other creatures and objects.

This interpersonal peace begins with God and radiates outwards to encompass all beings, living and non-living. Remarkably, we can find peace with anything, from our clothing and household items to our very hair, if we first establish peace within ourselves. Yet, this still leaves us pondering the initial inquiry: How do we attain peace? From where does it originate?

Firstly, I can assert that possessing true personal peace is almost an innate quality. One cannot instill peacefulness in someone brimming with inherently opposite traits. It’s a natural attribute for some. Yet, the majority of humans and animals tend toward violence rather than peace, leading to perpetual conflict in the world. Humans have waged wars against each other and other species, driven by the violent tendencies that pervade creation. We even have tales of celestial battles, reflecting our capacity to conceive anything based on our nature and experiences.

Many seem predisposed to aggression and hostility, feeling unfulfilled without causing harm through words or deeds. Conversely, there are those naturally imbued with tranquility. They coexist peacefully with themselves, the divine, their fellow humans, and all of creation, both animate and inanimate. These individuals are the pillars of peace within families, communities, nations, and the world at large.

WHAT DO WE DO WITH IT?

Indeed, if we possess peace from the outset, we have a foundation for much progress. While peace on Earth may seem an elusive dream, as evidenced by human and animal behavior, it doesn’t imply uniformity in disposition. Some individuals and animals naturally foster peace within a family, which then radiates to a clan, a tribe, and beyond. Peace is not only beneficial but also immensely practical.

Consider the current state of Kenya. Its peace and stability have made it a refuge for many from neighboring nations, despite instances where police have been known to mock or rob refugees stepping out of their camps. Similar situations are reported in Uganda and Ethiopia.

Peace often transcends the mere absence of war and violence. It encompasses the capacity to resolve conflicts before they escalate beyond control, whether these conflicts are internal or with others, including God, people, and other beings. Peace enables us to perform benevolent acts for ourselves and for others, allowing one to reside in their homeland until life’s end.

With peace comes not only physical development but also the growth of the inner self, leading to harmony with our environment. It paves the way for amenities like electricity and other necessities or desires. In a peaceful Juba, one can engage in writing, self-editing, self-publishing, self-marketing, and earning online, rather than relocating to Nairobi for such opportunities.

WHAT’S ITS IMPORTANCE?

As previously discussed, peace is crucial for both humans and other creatures on Earth. It appears that all living beings cherish peace, yet many actions threaten it. This paradox suggests that peace and conflict are inherent to life as we know it.

It’s uncertain whether conflict is a divine tool to regulate population sizes for the benefit of species. Death, similarly, might serve to balance the number of living beings, preventing overconsumption of resources. Could conflict then be an integral part of the ecosystems for humans and animals alike? It’s a question worth considering.

Nonetheless, the significance of peace cannot be overstated. Without it, life becomes a perpetual struggle; with it, nearly anything is achievable. However, it raises questions: Do all humans actively strive for the peace they long for? Is it a universal need? And what of those who profit from war—do they ever truly prefer peace, especially in conflict-ridden regions like South Sudan? These are critical considerations when reflecting on the value of peace in our lives.

MY FINAL WORDS

My concluding advice is that peace is crucial, yet conflict is an inherent part of life. Does this imply we should be content in conflict? Certainly not; no one rejoices in discord. However, it’s an undeniable reality that conflicts are unavoidable on Earth. What then is the wisest counsel? It is to strive for peace, whether on a personal or collective level.

If you are a person of peace, embrace your fleeting existence with serenity and accord with yourself, the divine, fellow humans, and perhaps all beings around you, animate and inanimate. Peace is not just an attribute; it is an integral part of who you are. I trust this article has offered you some insight. Feel free to share your reflections below; your feedback is highly valued. May you and your loved ones be blessed and protected during this global pandemic and beyond. Peace be with you!

FURTHER READINGS

• Definition of—Wikipedia.
• The definition—Vocabulary.

Knowing the Creator Won’t Make You Religious…

12^th July 2021

The “Creator” is an article designed to guide you in understanding who the Creator is, how to recognize Him, and what actions to take with this knowledge. It also explains why it’s crucial to have a personal understanding of Him. While the article is not religious, it certainly has a spiritual essence. Now, let’s delve into the details.

WHO IS THE CREATOR?

The Creator, also known as God, is the originator of all entities, whether they are visible or invisible, spiritual or physical, known or unknown, benevolent or malevolent, large or small. Despite the multitude of gods present in human history, there exists only one Creator who transcends all, permeates all, and exists for all. This is the deity under discussion in this article.

If indeed there is one true God, why then do different cultures have varied names and perceptions of Him? This question is as significant as it is reflective. It is impossible for every individual to perceive or understand God identically; these are human limitations, not divine ones. Our perception of God is shaped by numerous factors.

These factors encompass our experiences, cultural backgrounds, environments, and the religious teachings we encounter. No person is born with an innate understanding of God; rather, we are nurtured into such awareness by our culture. The perspectives of our predecessors on the Creator have been passed down to us and have shaped our own.

However, this does not preclude us from critically evaluating and questioning these inherited views. Influenced by the aforementioned factors, we are still capable of developing our own theories, beliefs, and doctrines about God, informed by the societal exposure we have inherited.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

HOW CAN WE KNOW THE CREATOR?

The Creator has revealed Himself to humanity in various ways. Beyond the accounts we find in the Bible, the Quran, the Bhagavad Gita, and numerous other texts, God communicates with us daily in diverse manners. He speaks through creation itself, which the psalmist suggests is the best way to understand the Creator.

The stars above speak of the Creator’s power, wisdom, and knowledge. And what of the other humans we observe? Or ourselves as individuals? Can we not see God in each one of us? And what about the other creatures around us? Indeed, God also communicates with us in our hearts and through visions. I distinguish visions from dreams, as dreams are merely the actions and replays of our brain’s activities, whereas visions are imparted to us by the Creator, even in our sleep.

While many of us may never experience a vision while awake, some have had one or more. Having had a vision at least twice in my life, I am certain of the spiritual realm’s reality. Those deemed mad claim to see and hear things beyond our perception.

We may think they are insane, yet they are not deceitful about their experiences; they are witnesses to them. Similarly, visions can occur both in sleep and wakefulness, though they often visit us in our slumber. How can we differentiate between a dream and a vision? One way to discern is when a vision, unlike a common dream, materializes, or when it encompasses thoughts we have never consciously considered while awake.

WHAT DO WE DO AFTER KNOWING THE CREATOR?

Upon discovering the Creator, individuals react differently based on their inherent nature. Some of us develop such a profound love that we spend our lives in worship and gratitude. Others prefer to distance themselves, blaming Him for their hardships. Personally, I yearn to understand Him more deeply.

I believe God’s goodness is so overwhelming that once we truly know Him, adoration comes naturally. Perhaps it’s my nature to see Him in this light. To me, He is more than a deity; He is a father and a friend, distinct from the image portrayed by organized religion. The personal experience of knowing Him is unique, as He reveals His nature to each individual in a different way.

God is not merely a judge awaiting our next mistake. Rather, He guides our lives, aware of our desires and needs, having designed us with these inclinations. The longing for a beautiful human being, for instance, does not surprise Him; He understands its origin. However, religious institutions often project human interpretations, citing scriptures to validate their beliefs, doctrines, and rituals, which may not necessarily reflect God’s perspective.

Consider this: I believe that certain connections between people are preordained by a higher power, existing long before we entered this world. However, this perspective is purely my own. Others may see things differently, and that’s perfectly acceptable to me. Personally, I cannot engage in casual sexual relationships unless I believe it aligns with God’s intention. Even if I were to accept such an arrangement, I trust that if it isn’t meant to be, circumstances would prevent it from happening as planned. This unwavering faith in the Creator guides my choices, recognizing that His wisdom surpasses our understanding.

Now, let’s explore the concept of ownership. What if you were someone else’s exclusive partner? What if you were married? In that context, I endorse intimacy between married couples. It’s a source of joy and fulfillment, free from the stress of secrecy. After all, those who know you recognize your commitment to each other. This perspective aligns with scriptural teachings. However, as humans, we don’t always adhere to moral guidelines. Whether I encourage people to engage in intimate relationships with their loved ones or not, they will follow their desires. Why? Because we’re inherently human.

Yet, there’s a crucial distinction: coercion. Forcing someone into a sexual encounter is entirely different. Such actions cause harm, affecting both individuals and, in some way, displeasing God. He doesn’t want us to carry guilt from such experiences. But when two consenting adults willingly agree, it’s a different matter. Still, religious communities may condemn such choices even before God does.

WHAT’S THE IMPORTANCE OF KNOWING THE CREATOR?

For me, understanding the Creator is intertwined with understanding myself. I define my identity through His perspective, for who has greater knowledge of me than He? This underscores the significance of knowing the Creator to me. He is the source of life and all that exists within it. He is the Creator of everything but Himself. He guides my life, as Paul said, “In Him, we live, move, and have our being.”

Recognizing the Creator also means recognizing that other people are His craftsmanship. He created them and loves them just as He created and loves me. This highlights the importance of knowing God as He truly is. If He indeed created everyone, then I have no right to hate or mistreat His creations, akin to myself. What would the Creator do to those who harm His work?

I hope you now understand the importance of knowing the Creator as He truly is. It is irrelevant to me what others believe or think about the Creator; their beliefs do not need to align with mine for them to be considered good or to qualify as God’s creations. They are already His creations, just as they are. Knowing Him implies that I should also inherently know and love His work, which includes people. I should also cherish His other creations, such as microbes, worms, insects, reptiles, amphibians, fish, birds, and animals.

Understanding the Creator as He truly is leads us to relate to His creation in a way that was not innate to us before. It means we now perceive things as He does. He is the Creator, and all things, visible and invisible, spiritual and physical, are His work, His creation. The Creator is not a created entity; thus, we cannot see, touch, smell, taste, or hear Him with our physical senses. We come to know Him internally.

MY FINAL WORDS

My final piece of advice is that the Creator is not as our cultures and religious traditions have depicted Him. He is God. He knows you thoroughly, more than anyone else ever could. This means He is not merely a judge waiting to punish you for your mistakes with His hammer of justice.

Rather, He is a caring father. He created you with everything that you are, be it female, male, or transgender. He loves you just as you are. However, this does not grant the liberty to act carelessly with your mind or body, particularly when your conscience cautions you. This is one of the ways God communicates, beyond His written and Living Word.

If your conscience advises against an action, heed its warning. If it tells you that an outfit is inappropriate because it reveals too much, choose not to wear it. Wearing such clothes might lead to constant self-consciousness in public, causing others to question your self-confidence. I hope this article about the Creator has been enlightening for you. Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section. I pray for God’s blessings and protection over you during and after the global pandemic. Shalom!

FURTHER READINGS

• Definition of Creator—Merriam Dictionary Online
• Definition of Creator—Wikipedia