Today the world largest democracy celebrates its independence. On any scale, the fact that it is independent is a miracle. The size of this democracy, the depth of its resources and cultural history are exception. The fact that it gained independence from a country that had exploited its resources and people for more than a century without going to war reflects the power of individuals with great ideas.
Gandhi, Nehru, and others believed that individual freedom, sovereignty, and non-violence were powerful weapons was just the beginning. At the core were four principle ideas: respect, understanding, acceptance and appreciation. The combination proved more powerful than armies, money, and politics combined. For all its weaknesses and challenges, India stands today as a testament to these ideals. Considering the odds of surviving, much less triumphing, the validation is loud, chaotic, and real.
The ideas Gandhi, Nehru, and others embraced are ones that Divinity has endorsed across time. They are ideals that can be used in your life and mine. In our embrace, the actions that follow explain and demonstrate the ideal. We, like India, are filled with weakness. However in our best moments, we reflect God’s ideal.
As I think of the examples I see – sacrifices so that others can have access to education, taking risk to that the defenseless know what it is like to be defended, and people of many different faith systems living and working in harmony – I realize I see God at work. Divinity has many names, but the experience is open to anyone willing to be a part of it all. It does not end there. One writer comment; “God’s Word vaults across the skies from sunrise to sunset, Melting ice, scorching deserts, warming hearts to faith.” (Psalm 19.6) The evidence is here for those willing to see.
Ideas are powerful. Embracing the right ones creates an opportunity to make a positive difference. We have the freedom to make this real. We hold the opportunities. The examples of others before us give me a sense of urgency. I can act. I can do something.
