INT-244 World Religions
Professor Kyle Smith Affirming Common Roots Thomas Merton appears to be making a statement concerning if mankind is only concerned with them on an individual basis then he or she is basically attempting to become self-sufficient. However, upon further reading it seems to make a statement "if" rejects others to do what is best for them then are may be a sin. It is God’s desire for all mankind to treat his or her fellow person as He would treat them with love and respect. Jesus has taught everyone in the Bible it is wrong to do wrong to others and if anyone does wrong to their fellow person then they are also doing wrong unto Him. Thomas Merton speaks about living life individually but, this way of living will quickly dissolve into nothing. And living life without Christ in it would be worthless and everyone should help to steer one another towards Christ. Thomas Merton wants everyone to become more aware of Christ and the sacrifice he has made for mankind. The main idea he is trying to get across to all those who follow Christ or their Higher Power is simply this no matter what your preference is as far as religion is concerned all should learn how to respect one another and get along. Mr. Merton shows some interesting signs there could also be some things alike between many religions. Plainly stated no one individual should disrespect another because of his or her belief, work, culture or anything else for all should have “Christ” as the way to being common ground so to speak. On this particular statement "If I affirm myself as a Catholic merely by denying all that is Muslim, Jewish, Protestant, Hindu, Buddhist, etc., in the end I will find there is not much left for me to affirm as a Catholic, and certainly no breath of the Spirit with which to affirm it (Conjectures of a Guilty Bystander, Merton)." Thomas Merton appears