Intersection of ideas in quotes, from friends--seeking more.

From a FB thread today.. favorite quotes from friends regarding the intersection of Politics, Religion and Economics with civility and honor..

Jeff Prillaman
"If we want to bring together what is divided, we cannot do so by imposing one division upon the other or absorbing one division into the other." Thomas Merton

Unity starts with civility and a sense of honor and respect for one another.

Laura Oberdier Pfortmiller
I'm on a Tolstoy kick this week - and this seems appropos: "The most difficult subjects can be explained to the most slow-witted man if he has not formed any idea of them already; but the simplest thing cannot be made clear to the most intelligent man if he is firmly persuaded that he knows already, without a shadow of doubt, what is laid before him."

Valerie Bernhardt
There is no true joy in a life lived closed up in the little shell of the self. When you take one step to reach out to people, when you meet with others and share their thoughts and sufferings, infinite compassion and wisdom well up within your heart. Your life is transformed. -Daisaku Ikeda

Jeff Prillaman
Would love to hear other inspiring quotes and ideas on this thread. I will compile and repost the whole if the thoughts are compelling. How about some ayn randians or others that bridge politics, religion, and economics?

Valerie Bernhardt
No matter how complex global challenges may seem, we must remember that it is we ourselves who have given rise to them. It is therefore impossible that they are beyond our power as human beings to resolve. Returning to our humanity, reforming and opening up the inner capacities of our lives, can enable reform and empowerment on a global scale. - Daisaku Ikeda

Valerie Bernhardt
The human race's prospects of survival were considerably better when we were defenceless against tigers than they are today when we have become defenceless against ourselves.
Arnold J. Toynbee

Jeff Prillaman
So far Valerie is.winning. Chuckle... Love it

Laura Oberdier Pfortmiller
sorry - missed these - a couple more (still Tolstoy:) "I sit on a man's back, choking him, and making him carry me, and yet assure myself and others that I am very sorry for him and wish to ease his lot by any means possible, except getting off his back."
Writings on Civil Disobedience and Nonviolence (1886)

Laura Oberdier Pfortmiller
"The more is given the less the people will work for themselves, and the less they work the more their poverty will increase."
Help for the Starving, Pt. III (January 1892)

Jeff Prillaman
Now it is getting good.

Laura Oberdier Pfortmiller
Even though that last one was Tolstoy, it's very "Randian" in nature...