Reflection #9: The Nativity Story

Throughout “The Nativity Story” and this excerpt from the Bible (Philippians 2:1-7), I was able to learn Jesus’s true characteristics. The Bible says that He was tender and compassionate, loving and humble. Jesus chose to come to this earth as a baby, born through an ordinary woman’s womb. Of course, he was specially born through the Holy Spirit, but still came as a baby through Mary. This was mainly for humility, because Jesus, “Who, being very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself…” (Philippians 2:6-8). The song that I chose, “Joy to the World”, describes Jesus as a ruler of truth and grace, and emphasizes his righteousness. The verse goes like this… “He rules the world with truth and grace, and makes the nations prove the glories of His righteousness, and wonders of His love, and wonders of His love, and wonders, wonders, of His love.”. According to this song and the passage from the Bible, Jesus’s love for us is indescribable and unfathomable. The overall emphasis about Jesus seems to be in accordance that He was a righteous man full of humility and love.

Also, a key factor that played throughout the whole nativity story of Jesus was faith. Mary firmly believed in God the moment an angel appeared to her and announced that she would be impregnated through the Holy Spirit. Also, Joseph believed that Mary’s baby was truly from the Holy Spirit, and not of another man. If he refused to believe this, Mary would have been stoned and Jesus wouldn’t have been born. Also, the Persian astrologers took a special sign of three stars meeting at one point to be a significant symbol of a Savior’s birth. They lacked tangible evidence, but with their faith they travelled long distances to meet the newborn King. The shepherds also believed the angels in the pasture and immediately set off to meet the baby. They left their animals behind, which is extremely dangerous, but still went off to celebrate the birth of their new King. All these characters in the story had immense faith, which allowed the story to continue the way it is told today.

Reflection #8: Two Different Perspectives

               After the terrorist attack by Muslim extremists on September 11, 2001, the site of destruction was dubbed “Ground Zero”, where the World Trade Center once stood in New York. When the news that a mosque would be built in that site reached the public, emotional debates and conflicts began to spark in various aspects and areas.

               The first western article from the New York Post portrays a generally negative view about the decision to erect a mosque. After interviewing various citizens of New York, they stated that a mosque’s presence in that site would be a horrible and painful memory for the casualties – especially since the event took hundreds of innocent lives, many whom were beloved ones of the citizens of New York. In general, the citizens complained that they do not mind the presence of a mosque in their community, but that its location was essential to its purpose. However, the Board has approved of the plan, and most citizens are outraged. Some actually state that it may become a chance to remove cultural differences and promote religious freedom, but most people still oppose the idea. The chief director of this plan claims that the mosque will not just simply be a mosque, but a community center with facilities open to everyone. However, the citizens argue that this plan is comparable to building a Japanese monumental building in Pearl Harbor, and says that it is an insensitive act by the Muslim minority. The article even states, “There are many questions about the Ground Zero mosque. But just one answer. Move it away”.

                In comparison, the CNN article takes this issue from a totally different perspective. The article quotes people who state that Americans shouldn’t stereotype – or even connect – Muslims to the extremists who caused this event, since Islam has nothing to do with terrorism and is actually a peaceful religion. They say that this will be a good chance to let people know about the true religion of Islam, and erase previous stereotypes that Muslims are extremists who believe in terrorism. Some citizens even state that 10% of the victims of this 9/11 attack was Muslim, and that it was not simply Americans who were damaged by this event. The article also addressed the issues of cultural division. "I think it's the right thing to do," said Marvin Bethea, who was a paramedic at ground zero. "I lost 16 friends down there. But Muslims also got killed on 9/11. It would be a good sign of faith that we're not condemning all Muslims and that the Muslims who did this happened to be extremists. As a black man, I know what it's like to be discriminated against when you haven't done anything."

                The two articles did not have any differences in actual facts, but stressed different information and opinions to convey different meanings. The article from the New York Post listed countless interviews with citizens who thought the mosque was “a slap in our face”. However, the CNN article introduced opinions of certain citizens who believed that it might be a good chance to break the cultural and religious divisions that preside in their community.

Article from the New York Post: http://www.nypost.com/p/news/national/mosque_madness_at_ground_zero_OQ34EB0MWS0lXuAnQau5uL/1

Article from CNN: http://articles.cnn.com/2010-05-07/us/new.york.ground.zero.mosque_1_muslims-ground-zero-community-center/2?_s=PM:US

Reflection #7: Personal Commemoration

        My event that will be commemorated is the passing of my grandfather. He has impacted my life in dire ways, and remains to be my role model even to this day. He has set a visible example for me to follow, as a virtuous and venerable man. He has contributed immensely to the growth of Christianity in South Korea, and was very famous. However, rather than becoming prideful, he lowered himself to humility and served people. The commemorative event will be in his memory, reliving his efforts. It will also be just for recognition of his contributions in Korean society, and remembering the benevolent man that he was. 

  The commemorative event will last 100 minutes, or an hour and 40 minutes. My grandfather was famous for giving sermons where he asked 100 questions of confirmation in faith to the audience. The phrase that I would like to be read is an excerpt from the book that he has written. Although it is written in Korean, it will be translated so people with different languages can all read it. It says that we should spread the Word of God, that Jesus died for, and spilled his blood for. We must spread his word, and plant them, so they may grow and sprout into their culture and society. In conclusion, we will recite the Lord’s Prayer, altogether in one voice during the commemoration. Finally, to close this commemorative event, the people will walk in a path similar to the shape of the letter “t”, as a representation of the cross, or Jesus, whom my grandfather spent his life for. People will be required to wear modest clothing, and everybody will drink a small glass of wine, or grape juice for underage attendants. There is no pilgrimage required, although it is encouraged to visit my grandfather’s grave if possible.

Reflection #6: The Sword of Damocles

The Sword of Damocles
(I put the red circle to point out the sword, which is not so conspicuous)
http://www.myartprints.co.uk/a/felix-auvray/the-sword-of-damocles-1.html

          Dionysius, a tyrant and selfish ruler has several courtiers who ceaselessly praise him. The King, annoyed by a particular courtier’s excessive flattery, devises a plan and allows him to the King’s authoritative position at a feast. Damocles is overjoyed, but is soon taken by horror as he discovers a sharp double-edged sword hanging a few feet from his head by a single string. Damocles is no longer able to enjoy this festive event - knowing that his life may be ended at any moment - and is anxious to step off of the throne as fast as he could.

          This myth exposes its readers to the moral of ‘do not envy’, or perhaps that 'the grass is not always greener on the other side'. Damocles was constantly jealous of Dionysius’s royal position, claiming it to be “the most high of everything that exists…”. However, as he was given the opportunity to take on the King’s position during the feast, the sword hanging above him teaches him a valuable lesson. He learns that boundless wealth or kingly power does not necessarily bring happiness. With the glory, also come the dangers of having such authority. He also learns that danger results from even the slightest actions, as the sword was hung from him by a single fragile string. This also reflects upon Greek virtues, which obviously taught that jealousy and coveting was wrong. Also, we can see that Greek society obviously understood the responsibilities of high authorities and the dangers they facd. Ultimately, this story teaches that with power come responsibility, don't perceive false images by the outwardly appearance, since the inside consequences may be drastically different, and also the fact that “those who would rise above their fellows cannot fear the heights to which they aspire.” (excerpts from the story: "The Sword of Damocles")

Reflection Question #5: Bongwonsa Temple and Nature Walk

             Even with the continuous advancement of technology, the world still contains many mysteries that are yet to be solved. In the prehistoric ages, we find that people held religions in high regard due to their lack of understanding of the world and inexplicable natural phenomenon. However, scientists are making new discoveries everyday that increase our understanding of the world around us. With this, people are now proposing a new question, why do we still hold religion in such high regard?

           There are still so many things existent in this world that scientists cannot mimic even to this day. These new mysteries often lead to the speculation of a higher being. I believe that even the nature offers a glimpse at a possible omniscient Creator. The marvelous design and balance that the natural Earth contains is truly remarkable, and beyond human comprehension. This leads to the conclusion that there must be a higher being, capable of such wonders. I felt this aspect of my religion from the temple visit to Bongwasan. I noticed the beautiful nature that surrounds the temple. This would help the monks and people in their meditation to contemplate nature and the truths that they believe in.

            Another possible explanation is that people always hold a sense of insecurity. This feeling can be relieved through such religions. Believing in such a divine being brings a sense of security and belonging. I feel that questions such as the true objective of life, why we exist, and even our life goals are explained by religion. I feel more secure and I get a sense of a purpose through religion. However, some religions also present a method of life rather than belief in a superior being, such as many Eastern religions.

They answer the purpose of ones’ life, such as attaining nirvana in some cases, such as Hinduism and Buddhism. Others follow the philosophical religions such as Confucianism and Taoism, which provide virtual guidelines for one to follow and obey. In a Taoist perspective, nature is in perfect balance and we should not be hindrances in its harmonious interplay. For a Christian, our lives should be based upon Jesus Christ’s and must embody the traits in the Bible. All these different beliefs are what people spend their lives trying to follow once they have a set religion. Therefore, religion plays a crucial role in answering some of the fundamental questions about life and provides a style of life, which one should live by. While science and our knowledge could answer our general questions about the physical world, our internal questions remain unsolved. That is where religion provides an answer, in the ambiguous places of our lives.

Reflection Question #4: Buddhist Meditation

            With the start of meditation, I began to think about Siddhartha Gautama, and who he really was. I received numerous inspirations throughout, and many of them were initiated by questions. I questioned myself, and also my beliefs. I began to consider the differences between religions such as Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, and others. I questioned my faith as well, but they were quickly answered and I was once again reassured about my religion. This led to thinking about my father and my family, as my father is a pastor. With nostalgic thoughts, I remembered my oldest brother who is in the United States for college, and realized how dearly I miss him. I felt the importance of your beloved, and how their significance in your life may not be felt so deeply until they are actually gone. Thinking about my brother, and remembering what a virtuous figure he was, I also wanted to be such a man. In certain aspects, I was able to attain right thoughts, right mindfulness, and right concentration because although at times my mind wandered, my central focus remained on becoming a better person and further improvements. This meditation time was a great chance where I was also able to see how close my lifestyle was to the Eightfold Path, and whether I agree with the Four Noble Truths. Near the end of my 20 minutes, I felt very relaxed and peaceful, which reminded me of the term "satori". In general, this meditation session was very soothing and a good experience for the mind and the body.

Gandhi Reflection Question #3

                 Gandhi, holding his foundational principles as a Hindu, held a wide spectrum of thoughts and beliefs that guided his actions and teachings. The fundamentals of his teachings can be based to Hinduism, as he is a Hindu himself, and his beliefs were inspired by his religion. However, some of his doctrines weren’t in full accord with the Hindu religion. In India, there is a caste system where people are born into different levels of society. We can base the principles on Hindu ideas, but Gandhi believes in equality for all. Although Gandhi was born as a Brahman, he teaches and is fair to everyone, even people of lower castes. In the movie, we can see him making speeches or teaching the people of lower castes. He also believed that religion should bring people together, and be accepting, rather than be individual distinctive characteristics. In the movie, Gandhi once says that he is a Christian, Jew, Muslim, Hindu, and Sikh. He says that we should not be dividing ourselves amongst different religions but accept each other and respect their beliefs. Hinduism does not allow polygamy, and one is to devote themselves to Hinduism only. However, Gandhi says that he is all those religions, once again going against the Hindu beliefs to teach his perspective of equality and religious unity. Gandhi was also a benevolent man fighting conflicts without violent retaliation. When the British were treating the Indians unjustly, he fought back with noncooperation and nonviolence. Even when they were being beaten down, the wounded Indians followed Gandhi’s firm belief in nonviolence. He also fasted when India was undergoing civil war, as a moral blackmail to the Indians that his death was in result of their actions. He did not blame people, but instead used the conscience and morality to fight a peaceful protest.

                  The virtuous traits that Gandhi had were exemplified in Gandhi’s everyday life. Gandhi once said, “An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind.” Gandhi was a man that spent most of his life fighting for the independence of India, through noncooperation, and was an extreme advocate of nonviolence. No matter how difficult the situations, Gandhi never retaliated with violent anger. In the movie, the Massacre at Amritsar was a pivotal point where the Indians began to rebel. However, instead of fighting back with weapons, Gandhi persisted that they must learn to resist the British, not fight back. He believed that fighting back would result in more meaningless deaths that would only accumulate as the situations aggravated. Even in desperate situations, Gandhi remained calm and thought of alternative decisions, not to seek revenge. Through these actions and decisions that Gandhi made, his values and morals were made conspicuous. Gandhi strictly followed his virtues, and this created the venerable man that is still known to this day.