As the forces of technology and consciousness continue to turn us into citizens of a global village, it becomes clearer, day-by-day, that our paths to happiness are heavily intertwined. We therefore need to live generously. When we look around, we see that the natural world already operates this way. Almost everything in nature is based on a continuous flow of giving that asks for nothing in return, not even a thank you—though we are free at all times to express our gratitude. The sun never ceases to share its light and warmth, nor the moon its magic. The trees offer their cool shade, rich beauty and delicious fruit. Year after year, the land yields food, medicine and minerals; water slakes our thirst; and a host of animals, fish, birds and plants give their lives to feed and clothe us. In the world community that is currently coming together, we can take a lesson from our fellow inhabitants of heaven and earth and imitate the munificence that sustains the creation. As we gain clarity about our gifts and our purpose, why not align with the universe’s natural impulse to share generously? Truly, we are all in life together and your fulfillment and mine are one. We are all designed not only to experience fullness within ourselves, but also to be a conduit for it in whatever unique ways our souls are inspired to do. A new society, a compassion-based societ,y is being structured right under our noses whether we can see it or not. It may well be something bigger and grander than any of us foresee, simply because it is being designed by the infinite imagination of God. As we each become aware of our gifts and feel empowered to realize them, we can whole-heartedly share who we are with the web of life. In so doing, we opt for the privilege of creative participation in this divine plan. However, we have no guarantees of any specific outcomes from our efforts, because the divine plan unfolds with its own perfect timing and purposefulness. We hit the ball with all our strength and commitment and everything we know about batting, but where it lands and how far it goes is never totally predictable. We can therefore learn to act and give without expectation. We can learn to follow our guidance just because something is clearly ours to do, but without trying to impose a particular outcome or ideology on any situation, individual, society or environment. Even our love cannot be imposed on others if they do not want it. From the smallest life form, to the entire globe, to the far reaches of the universe, everything is divinely orchestrated, and everything is expanding towards ultimate unity with its Source, with God, in its own, divinely led way. Everything has its own inner compass. Sometimes we may see the big picture, or parts of it, and sometimes not. We can choose to be the richest possible expressions of our own souls and support others to do the same, in the ways that are genuinely inspired. The big picture is a divinely produced drama in which we can joyfully play our roles and honor all the other individuals who contribute their special gifts and play their singular parts in this magnificent world. Having said this, I believe that it is incumbent on those who live beyond the survival and security mode to envision the future of our global community. Those who are on a path of growth and fulfillment need to take the lead, with great love, compassion, respect and sensitivity, in guiding our global village into the future. The future truly beckons those who feel moved to be leaders, whether in the tangible or subtle realms of life. They are the channels through which new knowledge and perspectives can flow, new solutions can be uncovered, new shared structures can be created and new modes of operating in the world can be enlivened. Cynthia Lane/2006