Divine Splinters - Embracing Personal Responsibility - A Journey to Empowerment and Divine Connection

How are you doing? As in... really. How are you? Are you navigating the challenges of life, feeling weighed down by its burdens? Or do you pause to savor the fleeting moments of joy that grace our existence?

Let me share a secret with you: No matter how dire your circumstances may seem, there is someone out there who is facing even greater adversity. Picture this: while you grapple with your struggles, someone is injecting their final dose of heroin, their soul teetering on the precipice of oblivion. Another contemplates pulling the trigger, unaware that the shot will forever alter their life, leaving them wounded instead of ending it all.

Keep reading. Open yourself to knowledge previously unknown.

Imagine the cover image of this article—a majestic angel from the chapel of Spydeberg Church. It was once adorned in black, as someone believed that "an angel can't be black." But here's the twist: I edited it back to its original form.

In a world fraught with trials and tribulations, I offer you a message of hope and empowerment. As you open your heart to these words, let us embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal responsibility, guided by the radiant light that resides within each of us—a Divine Splinter.

Taking Ownership of Your Life:

Throughout history, humanity has sought answers, yearning for solace and direction. Today, I not only provide guidance but also reveal a profound truth: the power to shape your life lies within your grasp. It is time to embrace this truth and take ownership of your existence.

But wait! At the end of this article, I have an exercise for you—a transformative exercise that will ignite your life!

You are not mere pawns in the grand tapestry of life; instead, you are co-creators, blessed with the freedom to choose and the capacity to manifest your desires. Every decision, thought, and action possesses the potential to mold your reality. Embracing this truth empowers you to forge a path of purpose and significance.

In the face of challenges and adversity, it is easy to shift blame onto external circumstances or the actions of others. But rise above such tendencies and embrace the transformative power of responsibility! By doing so, you unlock the immense potential that resides within you—the power to shape your own destiny and influence the world around you.

Reflecting on Your Choices and Actions:

Take a moment to reflect upon your choices and actions. Are they in alignment with the values of love, compassion, and integrity? Are you actively pursuing your dreams and utilizing your talents to uplift yourself and others? Remember, true fulfillment springs not solely from external achievements but from living in harmony with your divine purpose.

Release the shackles of the past, for it does not define you. Your mistakes and wounds need not hold you captive any longer. I offer you forgiveness and the opportunity for rebirth. By embracing responsibility for your past actions, you pave the way for a future filled with growth, redemption, and spiritual transformation.

Connecting with the Divine and Nurturing Your Gifts:

As you journey through life, remember that you are not alone. Seek guidance in prayer and commune with the Divine. Tap into the wellspring of wisdom and unconditional love that flows eternally. Allow the stillness of your heart to merge with the boundless source of creation.

I implore you to rise. Embrace responsibility for your own life, for the time has come to step into your true power and live authentically. Do not wait for others to bring about change or for?circumstances to align perfectly. The world hungers for your unique gifts and contributions.

Recognize your inherent divinity and let love be the guiding force in all your actions. Cultivate empathy, kindness, and forgiveness towards yourself and others. Stand as a radiant beacon of light, illuminating the path for those lost in darkness.

Together, let us co-create a world firmly rooted in love, compassion, and unity. Embrace the call to responsibility, and you shall discover the abundant blessings that await you. Trust in your divine purpose, and let your life become a testament to the transformative power of personal responsibility.

The time is now. Will you answer the call?

Disentangling from Misguided Influences:

You continue to bow down to authority figures. A guru instructs you, saying, "Do as I say, give me all your money, and you shall receive blessings." An Imam advises, "Strap these pounds of C4 around your chest and vanquish the unbelievers, securing a life of abundance and heavenly rewards." A minister claims, "Trump is a human angel, and supporting his mission of hate and segregation is paramount."

Bill Gates encourages you to be a sheep rather than a shepherd. And because its founder has amassed billions, you blindly believe. Elon Musk projects his own fears onto you, and you acquiesce, for his success seemingly legitimizes his claims. After all, the idea of malevolent AI appears plausible!

AND YOU ACTUALLY BELIEVE THEM!

Pause and reflect: did you heed Jesus' "call to action"? He implored, "Love Everybody like Yourself." And... he invited you to realize your own perfection. Did you listen?

Even Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam, emphasized personal responsibility and accountability across various aspects of life.

Prophet Muhammad's Teachings on Personal Responsibility:

One of the key principles emphasized by Prophet Muhammad was the concept of individual responsibility for one's actions. He taught that every person is accountable for their deeds, both in this life and the afterlife. Muslims believe that on the Day of Judgment, each individual will be answerable to Allah for their actions, and they will receive due rewards or punishments accordingly.

Prophet Muhammad encouraged believers to assume responsibility for their moral conduct, reminding them that they possess control over their choices and actions. He stressed the importance of personal integrity, honesty, and fulfilling obligations towards oneself, others, and the wider community.

Furthermore, the Prophet highlighted the significance of personal growth and self-improvement. He urged individuals to strive for excellence in character, knowledge, and skills, emphasizing that acquiring knowledge and seeking wisdom is a fundamental duty for every Muslim, as personal development is an ongoing journey.

Additionally, Prophet Muhammad urged believers to fulfill their responsibilities towards their families and communities. He underscored the importance of being compassionate, generous, and just in their dealings with others, recognizing their duty to contribute positively to the welfare of society as a whole.

Let us differentiate between historical contexts and broader interpretations. While certain verses or statements from the Quran may refer to specific historical situations or conflicts during the Prophet Muhammad's time, they were not intended as general directives to incite hatred or violence against all non-believers.

Islamic teachings emphasize the spread of Islam through peaceful means and engaging in respectful dialogue. Muslims are encouraged to invite others to the path of righteousness with wisdom, good conduct, and kindness. The Quran states that there is no compulsion in religion (Quran 2:256), underscoring the importance of respecting the beliefs and freedoms of others.

In essence, be a good neighbor. Regrettably, certain groups like Boko Haram, the Taliban, and the government of Iran have overlooked essential aspects of Prophet Muhammad's teachings.

An Exercise to Awaken the Divine Within:

Now, let us embark on an exercise together. Put on a playlist featuring your favorite worship music. Personally, I find solace in the songs of Hillsong Church and Bethel Church, whose music exudes a captivating beat, compelling enough to move your body.

As you immerse yourself in the music, imagine that when they sing about "my savior," "Jesus," "God" (or Allah, the Buddha, Shiva, or any deity that resonates with your faith), they are singing about you.

Feel it intensely. You are your own savior! You are your own Guru! Within you resides a Divine Splinter of the divine.

The concept of being made in the image of God is rooted in the Bible, specifically in the book of Genesis. Genesis 1:26-27 states:

"Then God said, 'Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.' So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them."

This teaches us that human beings are created in the image and likeness of God. While the exact meaning of being made in God's image has been the subject of theological discussions and interpretations, it generally implies several important aspects:

1. Dignity and Value: Being made in God's image affirms the inherent worth and value of every human being. It signifies that humans possess a unique and special status among all of God's creation.

2. Reflection of God's Character: Being created in God's image suggests that humans possess qualities and attributes that reflect the character of God to some extent. This includes capacities for love, reason, creativity, and moral responsibility.

3. Relationship with God: As image-bearers, humans have the potential for a profound relationship with God. It signifies the capacity to know and be known by God, to commune with Him, and to seek a deeper spiritual connection.

4. Stewardship and Dominion: The passage also speaks of humans being given dominion over the earth and its creatures. This highlights the responsibility to care for and responsibly manage the world and its resources, reflecting God's role as the Creator and sustainer of all things.

The concept of being made in God's image is considered foundational in Christian theology. It affirms the sanctity and value of every human life, providing a basis for ethical and moral considerations in how we treat one another and the world around us.

Engage in this exercise for as long as it resonates with you. Become one with God!

Once you have completed this exercise, I invite you to listen to the songs I released today. The title may indicate my personal interpretation of what God represents...

Stay blessed, much Love & Light,

H?kon, Monk.