Pure Brotherhood

The William James’ quote that Wim posted makes the crucial point that a spiritual life is one of action and that such action has mainly to do with our relationship with those who surround us. I am not going to quote St. Teresa of Avila again. The venerable St. Bede conveys the same thought: “He alone loves the Creator perfectly who manifests a pure love for his neighbor.” This pure love involves brotherhood (and therefore equality), not as an end, but as a pre-requisite. I must see you as brother (or sister) before we even meet.