The Charter for Compassion will be unveiled on November 12, 2009. Its intention is to implement the Golden Rule globally. Karen Armstrong, the winner of the 2008 TED Prize and the inspiration behind the development of the Charter for Compassion, says that "the task of our generation…is to build a global community where people of all persuasions can live together in peace and harmony."
Karen Armstrong, author of twelve books including the best seller, "A History of God," points out "the centrality of compassion in all the world major faiths. Every single one of them has evolved their own version of what's being called the Golden Rule. Sometimes it comes in a positive version - ‘Always treat all others as you'd like to be treated yourself.' And equally important is the negative version - ‘Don't do to others what you would not like them to do to you.' Look into your own heart. Discover what it is that gives you pain. And then refuse under any circumstances whatsoever to inflict that pain on anybody else."
Creating the Charter for Compassion took almost 2 years. The process began with a global partnership with organizations around the world. Well over 150,000 people from 180 countries contributed their own words to the Charter. It concluded with 18 renowned religious thinkers and leaders - a Council of Conscience - crafting the final version of the charter.
On the weekend of November 12-15, Karen Armstrong will call on the world to begin the grassroots movement to bring compassion to the center of religious, moral, and political life.
Here is a list of Bay Area events highlighting the Charter for Compassion:
Workshop on Compassion -Cosmic Dog Yoga
November 7, Livermore
Workshop attendees come to an understanding of the role they play in the global community. Previous yoga experience is not required.
Engaging the Other- The Power of Compassion
November 12-15, San Mateo
An international, multidisciplinary, multicultural conference exploring images of Us and Them."
World Peace Village Labyrinth Walk
November 12, Menlo Park
A World Peace Village will be set up around a labyrinth. Everyone is invited to come walk the labyrinth in compassion. The Charter will be presented at noon.
Quilts for Love for Oakland Children's Hospital
November 14, Livermore
Children will be making quilts for other children who are in the hospital. In this way they will learn about compassion.
I appreciate you letting me know of other Bay Area events celebrating the Charter!
Subscribe to my column so you never miss a story.
Comments
I heard Karen Armstrong last week on NPR talking about the Charter for Compassion. Such a simple, basic idea, yet the true solution to so many ills that this planet suffers from. I hope animals are included as deserving of compassion too.
Karen Armstrong's message is "doable" and needed. It touches my heart.
I aim to practice this challenge. If each of us intends this, we can change the world.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!