Something I Don’t Like To Think About

Shunning.

Shun: to avoid, ignore, or reject …
To dislike, showing a lack of empathy and compassion.

For some reason, this applies especially to ‘religious’ people. If someone has problems with the manner of a group, and feels that they have to leave – or is kicked out – they are immediately shunned, rejected by the others.

If shunning means to avoid, ignore or reject, this is aversion or fear. Where is the empathy or compassion? Shunning shows immaturity, a lack of understanding and a fear of being contaminated by unconventional or awkward questioning.

The essence of a subject is more important than the form which attracts believers. Religions cannot help turning people into obedient and excessively servile followers to a degree that feels a little too … well, you can put the word in! (for me, it’s ‘creepy’ :D)

Even in Buddhism, we are expected to fall in line with mannerisms,
so we learn just to smile and walk on.

A path isn’t about joining others’ confusion. It’s an individual’s ability to cut through their personal confusion and judgements. Once we get a taste of freedom, we naturally want to share this freedom – without proselytising.

There are many traditions, and there’s a reason for that; they don’t quite see things the same way. It’s acceptable for groups to agree to differ, but when it comes to an individual within a group, difference becomes a reason to shun. Being shunned is a test of our generosity and patience – and therefore, our confidence.