Standing Up for What is Right: A Spiritual Call to Action
What is right isn’t always easy. Lately, I have found myself reflecting on what it truly means to live by the values of love, compassion, and empathy. Christ cared for the poor, the sick, and the vulnerable. Yet, in the world around us, I see a stark contrast to those teachings. There is a deep disconnect between what many in power preach and how they act. I hesitate to call out hypocrisy, but if I remain silent, am I any better than those who look away?
As spiritual leaders, we have a responsibility to lead with integrity. That means standing up to bullies, even when our voices shake. It means advocating for those who are marginalized, even when it comes at a personal cost. I have felt unsupported and disrespected in spiritual and political spaces alike. I have witnessed people hold onto their perceived power at the expense of others. And yet, I cannot turn away.
Silence is complicity.
When I think about history—the abolitionist movement, the Civil Rights era, even women’s suffrage—I ask myself: What would I have done? Would I have stood on the right side of history, even if it meant personal sacrifice? I want to believe that I would. And if that is true, then I must do so now.
But this is not just about national or global issues. It is about what we do in our own communities. How do we care for our neighbors? How do we create spaces of support and inclusion? Whether it is donating to a food pantry, mentoring someone in need, or speaking out against injustice, every action matters. We may not be able to change everything, but we can all do something.
Natural Law teaches us that we are all connected. The energy we put into the world matters. If we approach life with fear, frustration, and anger, we will see more of that reflected back at us. But if we move forward with love, courage, and hope, we create space for change. That is why spiritual practice is essential—it helps us fill our cups so that we can act from a place of clarity rather than despair.
What is Right?
I do not have all the answers, but I know this: we must not let fear keep us silent. We must not let exhaustion keep us from trying. And we must not let those in power dictate our morality. Just because something is legal does not make it right.
So, I invite you to reflect: What can you do today to bring more love, compassion, and empathy into the world? What does community mean to you, and how can you contribute to it?
The road ahead is uncertain, but we do not walk it alone. What is right is clear if we listen to Spirit. We walk it together, guided by Spirit, aligned with our values, and committed to making a difference—one step, one voice, and one act of kindness at a time.
