Long ago, there existed nomadic tribes whose philosophies guided their way of life. They understood that constant movement increased their chances of survival and prevented complacency. Safety lay in numbers, as a larger group could fend off larger animals. With a well-organized tribal structure and effective leadership, the collective intellect of many individuals was harnessed to find optimal solutions to challenges that arose.
Scarcity of food posed a significant problem for these ancient people. Those who lived closely connected to the land, following natural laws of non-harm and compassion, possessed a deep wisdom. They recognized that food was transient and devised ingenious ways to prepare and sustain themselves. In the practice of being fully present in each moment, these wise beings embraced the highest form of Zen. They remained attuned to the Earth's vibrations, even in the face of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The young and old sought guidance from strong leaders on how to manage their fears.
Within the clan, it was the collective responsibility to protect all members. Human beings form deep attachments to their loved ones, and witnessing attacks on members of their clan by other animals terrified them. Such traumas left many perplexed by the unforgiving nature of the world. Tribal elders, who understood, endeavored to teach forgiveness and understanding. Sometimes, these lessons went unheeded, leading to the first intentional killing of an animal for food—a mix of murder, butchery, and consumption as an act of vengeance for the creature that took a loved one's life.
This narrative echoes in our modern stories, exemplified by films like the iconic Jaws, where humans seek revenge on dangerous creatures that cause grief and terror. The tale captivates us, not just because sharks are fascinating and fearsome, but because we delight in stories of humans triumphing over ferocious animals. There was a time when we feared no animals, with occasional encounters involving snake bites or poisonous spiders. We had outsmarted the creatures, avoiding them entirely. We learned to surround ourselves with animals that would keep other predators at bay.
Unfortunately, our relationship with Mother Earth became distorted when we first killed animals for sustenance or plowed the earth under government or profit-driven orders. We encountered trouble when we distanced ourselves from pristine land and packed into artificial cities. In our quest for domestication, we lost touch with the land and, subsequently, our souls and the longing for spiritual connection to the divine. Each human being holds within their consciousness the secrets of the cosmos, but the challenge lies in tapping into that wisdom.
As we progress, can we gather all the individuals who are awakening to their beautiful gifts and inspire them to contribute to the future of our species and our wondrous planet, along with all the creatures it sustains? There is no higher teaching than this—to follow any practice that reminds us we are interconnected with all life. Whether it is refraining from consuming fish because we are like fish or allowing a snail to return to its habitat, we should take no pleasure in our mind or body from the loss of life of another being. It is an intricate and challenging issue to unravel, but let there be no controversy. If you cannot fully embrace this truth at present, do not disregard it.
Perhaps, in time, willingness will blossom in your heart, for there must be a reason you have read this until the end. You cannot shame me, for I am not an individual writing this. I am the collective voice of your compassionate ancestors, urging you to listen.