WIHW 2017: Mission III: Harmonize

For Reflection: Before moving on to Mission #3, take a moment to reflect on yesterday's mission. How did it feel to listen compassionately to another person - respecting their worth as a human being regardless of their differences in tradition, perspective or culture? Were you able to connect with them in a heartfelt way? How might it affect your life if you took this approach toward connecting and listening to others everyday? If you haven't done so, post your reflections and experiences on the Compassion Report Map to amplify your compassionate action!  I did not have the opportunity to talk about another person about traditions, faith, perspectives or culture, but the Three Interfaith Amigos made me think of people talking different languages.  We think we could be understood if we speak louder, or all at the same time and we do not communicate.  The few minutes of the video made me realize the importance of attentive listening and meaningful dialog.  A dialog where we share instead of judge or make our personal opinions prevail.

Our third mission, Agents, is to harmonize our voices with other traditions and cultures through the universal expression of music. Every culture and society values music as a fundamental expression of human life. Its enchanting qualities transcend language, as it can be understood on levels that dive deep below the rational, thinking mind, straight to the heart. Today, find a hymn, chant, or song from a tradition different than your own and listen to it deeply. Even if you cannot understand the words, allow the music to move your spirit. Feel the nuances and movement of the music. Imagine the visuals these sounds invoke, and allow yourself to feel the experience in your body. Then, when you are ready to, add your own voice to the piece of music in your own way. You might hum quietly to the music, or add your own harmonies. Agent, your voice is an incredibly powerful tool. From it arises your deep, personal truth and through music, you can share it with the world. Need a place to start? We recommend listening to “The Gift of Love” by Sami Yusef, a song composed for World Interfaith Harmony Week in 2015! Agents, remember... As you fulfill your mission, share your experiences on theCompassion Report Map to amplify its power! Check out all of the inspiring reports posted on the map so far! Inspiration for Mission #3: Inspiration for Mission #3 comes from Malala Yousafzai, a young woman whose voice and truth could not be silenced. Malala, a Pakistani activist for female education, is the youngest laureate of the Nobel Peace Prize. The local Taliban in her region attempted to assassinate her on October 9th, 2012, due to her work to see that all children receive an education. Watch an incredible interview with Malala and Oprah Winfrey here. Additional Resources: Tune into the Compassion Games Live "Blab", an interactive interview with interesting champions of compassion on Thursday at 4pm PST! RSVP here. Check out this Golden Rule Spotify playlist put together by our partner Spiritual Playdates