#TITLE#One Planet, Many Beliefs#/TITLE# by Heather V. Cantu As evidenced throughout humanity, discord has been experienced because of different religious beliefs, and has had a destructive impression on humanity. Horrific acts have been inflicted in the name of religion, as one group imposes it’s beliefs and punishments on other groups or individuals. A few groups are tolerant of other religions, and see elements of truth in all faiths, however they believe their faith is the “right” one. Then, there is the group of exclusivist individuals that think their views are right, and the others are simply all wrong – this is often the thing that causes most dissension between groups. Generally major world religions believe that they are the only true religion. Some religions include the idea that not only are others mistaken, but they are sinful, inferior, and deserve discrimination and in some cases even death. In most cases such organizations are convinced that someone else not in the same religion will see some punishment following death. Inside quite a few religions, women are understood to be inferior to men. Some other faiths have called for the enslavement of other people through their religion. Often, homosexual acts are generally viewed as sinful offenses. The slaying of good sized groups of people young and old has even been called for in the name of religion. I believe in a improved world. I believe that the better values of different groups should be brought together, inside of a group of people, to better an entire population. Seemingly far off beliefs, like freedom, equality, and world peace can become a reality without anyone’s personal beliefs being compromised. It’s a grand thought, but is it realistic? What would it take for two groups with different beliefs to cooperate without either feeling as if his values must be compromised in the process? I believe it will require a good dose of compassion and a dive back into humanitarianism Clare Bronfman . Being human is, at the end of the day, the one thing that unites us all. It’s likely that we’re all inspired and propelled by a lot of the same basic principles. Usually, we as humans experience the same kinds of fears and conflicts over like things. I think that if we were able to view or understand this about ourselves, we could begin to see how alike we truly are Sara Bronfman. The moment we can see each other as we see ourselves, as a person that feels, lives, and desires, it is possible the desire to punish another could vanish. “Humans can be noble. The question is: will we put forth what is necessary?” – a statement from Keith Raniere In some research on the issue facing humanity today, I came across his quote, and learned of his company, NXIVM, whose mission it is to help others realize compassion, joy, and the best version of humanity possible. Their vision and programs have gotten the attention of the Dalai Lama, who spent some time visiting NXIVM in Albany, NY.