For those who have eyes to see, there are lessons everywhere.

        On an Anglican bishop’s tombstone, that is in the Westminster Abbey crypt, on Parliament Square, one can read:

        When I was young and free and my imagination had no limits, I dreamed of changing the world.

        As I grew older and wiser, I discovered the world would not change, so I shortened my sights somewhat and decided to change only my country.

        But it too seemed immovable.

        As I grew into my twilight years, on one last desperate attempt, I settled for changing only my family, those closest to me, but alas, they would have none of it.

        And now as I lay on my deathbed, I suddenly realize: if I had only changed myself first, then by example I might have changed my family.

        From their inspiration and encouragement I would then have been able to better my country and who knows, I may have changed the world.

*  *  *

        This is exactly how we almost always think and act. It is common to read a section of the Gospel and, soon after, to think how those sayings would be very important to someone in our family.

        When we listen to an enlightened speech, which instigates us towards good, the thought that it would be very good if a specific person were there to listen to it as well quickly comes to mind.

        This would do him or her very good! Is what we tell ourselves.

        This information could really change his or her actions.

        When we profess a certain religion, our thoughts are no different.

        We keep wishing our relatives, friends and colleagues to profess the same creed, to share the same ideals we do.

        At times, we become a little inconvenient, perhaps even a lot, sending messages and chosen phrases to our friends.

        All hoping they will read, assimilate and practice them.

        They are phrases referring to good behavior, ethics and morals, and those who receive them will surely think:

        It would be good if the sender put these formulas into practice as well. He or she really needs them.

        This is why the world is not yet the special place we aspire so much: an oasis of comprehension, with winds of peace and singing fraternity fountains.

        It is because each one of us wishes, thinks and hopes to change other people, to make them comprehensive and polite.

        However, Humanity’s Role Model and Guide established that each one must be up to his or her own administration and manage his or her own life, duties and mission.

        The world is the sum of all of us, of every person’s actions.

        The pressing decision of putting ourselves up to our own improvement is up to us.

        And today, today is the best day for it. Not tomorrow or the day after that.

        Today. Let us start thinking about what we can improve in ourselves.

        It may be a kind gesture. How about a Good morning, a Thank you, a smile?

        Let us think about that.

Spiritist Moment Team
July 02 2008.