To Understand Each Other

Contents

Pope John Paul II and Jean Vanier, both great thinkers and deeply spiritual souls, carry and display a unique wisdom that sees not only the roots of our human struggle, but also the branches of Divine Compassion. For each of these individuals, the pathway to peace is a roadway paved with hope, and love: a journey that draws on the intellect and wisdom of humanity (when human beings choose to be the best they can be), as well as seeks a deeper spirituality [and communion] that comes only from a connection to God. In the words of John Paul II, "We need [to find] a new spirituality of communion (... where ‘spirituality of communion’ means to know how to 'make room' for our brothers and sisters bearing each other's burdens) .... [we need] the ability to see what is positive in others, to welcome it and prize it as a gift from God; not only as a gift for the brother and sister who has received it directly, but also as a gift for me." 3

As a final thought, I am reminded of the words of Jean Vanier: "[an] openness to and respect for others implies a belief in our common humanity, in the beauty of other cultures, and in God's love for each person. We are one human race. We human beings are all fundamentally the same. We are all people with vulnerable hearts, yearning to love and be loved and valued. ... This openness, which brings together people who are different, is inspired by love, a love that sees the value in others through and in their differences and the difficulties they might have, a love that is humble, vulnerable and welcoming ... Peace comes as we approach others humbly, disarmed, from a place of truth, not from a place of superiority. ... Isn't that the vision at the heart of all interdenominational and interfaith dialogue?"4

The ability to understand each other is essential. The need for tolerance, and patience, and compassion is critical. And the desire for mutual openness, and respect, and dialog is monumental.

We begin at home. We extend into our villages, towns and communities. And we succeed ..... when we have achieved peace with one another …. and discovered a new spirituality of communion.

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  1. Tournier, Paul. To Understand Each Other. Atlanta: John Knox Press, 1981.
  2. Ortberg, John.  Love Beyond Reason. Grand Rapids, Michigan:  Zondervan Publishing House, 1998.
  3. Cardinal Walter Kasper, president of the Vatican Council for Christian Unity, paraphrasing Pope John Paul II
  4. Vanier, Jean.  Drawn into the Mystery of Jesus through the Gospel of John.  Saint Paul University, Ottawa: Novalis, 2004.