Northwest respects golden rule

The core teaching of most world religions is to treat others as you want to be treated. Everything else – myths, scriptures, commandments, statues, paintings, relics, ceremonies, offerings, prayers and holy days – are piles of dirty clothes that only hide this central truth.

If you put all of this in a celestial washing machine, and use the heavy setting, the only thing that would be left is the golden rule: Love others as you love yourself.

Unfortunately, human beings can’t stand simplicity, especially when it requires some self-examination. Thus, we erect complex and competing religions that justify every sort of bad behavior so long as it supports our particular notion of love; even if it looks and acts more like hate.

The reason why I love the Pacific Northwest is the people who live here. They are enormously respectful, friendly, polite and honest. The natural wonders that surround me make me humble and joyful. I can’t understand where all of the sanctimonious anger and hate comes from. I don’t feel it. Peace be with you.

David Webb

Spokane