From “Me and Mine” to “Our and Ours”

The mindset which is narrowly focused on only self-gratification at the expense of the happiness and satisfaction of others is responsible for the pain and suffering expressed in today’s world. The idea that only my desires should be taken into account even if it means that others are injured in the process leads to insensitivity about the damaging effects of one’s action on the universe as a whole. Disregard or insensitivity toward the basic human rights of the individuals in society can only lead to a state of disintegration and disharmony in a nation. A good leader is one who is able to fulfill the desires of his followers, not dismantle or crush their voices. The use of authoritarian measures to subjugate any dissenting voices cannot lead to a lasting state of peace or harmony.

The impact of the dominant idea of only “me and mine” matters is causing a crisis of despair in the USA. In order to make America great again, it is not necessary to try to crush the success of other evolving nations. We all exist in an interdependent web of relationships and the rise of one nation doesn’t depend on the fall of another. The egocentric, selfish mindset of “me and mine” overlooks the fact that we live in a eco-system of checks and balances. The laws of nature record the actions and reactions of every individual and cosmic law dispenses results in accordance with the action. No one can escape the negative consequences of life-damaging actions. The universe reacts to individual actions

The mindset of world leaders must begin to expand to include actions which serve the collective good of the planet as a whole. Only the vision of “our and ours” can bring lasting positive results which lead to a world where suffering belongs to no one. Such a vision is encapsulated in this prayer recited daily in nearly every ritual in India:

“Om. May all be happy; may all be healthy; may all see auspiciousness; may none suffer.”