We see that almost all of organic life strives to live and to thrive. All living things are united in this common bond. Yet, we also feel a sense of union and camaraderie with any sentient life which reflect and echo other aspects of our being.

In higher life forms we see many of our needs and desires echoed in their actions, gestures and habits. We see animals that love, are loyal, protect their families, mourn the dead, play, show anger, frustration and even disgust. We see animals that show pride, shame and even a sense of humor.

An infant tugs at our heartstrings with its first smiles and frowns and in their explosions of joy and glee. Many of us feel a special union when we notice a young child or animal looking at the same object that we are, or when we seem to be experiencing the same event.

Each time we recognize that we are experiencing the same world and having similar sensations and maybe even similar thoughts and responses we feel deeply reassured and connected. Yes, indeed, experience does unite.

I will never capture with brush, bow, mouth nor pen
The beauty of a baby’s smile the love in a mother’s eyes
Yet we all feel it the power of life
Some images and feeling bring tears to our eyes

We are all connected by our common world and the experience of being and staying alive.

I find myself when talking with you
The great river of life connects and soothes
The great river of life refreshes and unites
The great river of life is both in and outside

While our common viewpoints and beliefs can draw us together into large groups they also divide us into us and them. While the experiences which comprise the great river of life truly unite us, our judgements, ideologies, beliefs and dogmas divide and arouse deep seeded and often irreconcilable chasms.

Our decision to go to war or fight with others is almost always based in conflicts in belief and ideology, whose negative passions are usually overcome when we focus on our shared experiences and common values. It is hard to hate those who love and care the same way we do, or who experience the joys and challenges of life in ways which look much the same as ours.

Our response to seeing others experience life the same as we do is compassion and respect and not hate and intolerance. Yet, differences in beliefs and ideologies often cloud or overshadow our ability to embrace our common experiences and same commitment to living, thriving and peacefully coexisting.