I want to talk about the theory of relativity.
and compassion. I want to talk about compassion.
The theory of general relativity is honestly one of the most fascinating concepts to me. Over the summer, I read Einstein’s Cosmos by Michio Kaku while I was at the beach. I remember feeling overwhelmed and very, very small as I sat on the beach and glared into the evasive ocean and seemingly limitless aqua blue sky. I remember feelings of awe, and of curiosity of what lies out there. I remember feelings of gratitude and incomprehensible intrigue. I wanted to ask questions. One day, I cannot wait to have my most inquisitive questions answered by the great Creator of all things. I grew an even greater appreciation for Whom I believe made these magical, quintessential concepts. I wish I had the knowledge capacity to explain what the theory of relativity is, but I do not, and I would be lessening the value of the theory if I tried to explain it. I do know, however, that this theory concerns two heavenly objects in reference to each other or each in reference to a certain inertial frame. A subdued example of this is being in a train and looking out the sides. To you, the train is traveling at a fast speed and the trees and grass and sky are all artistically blending together. But if there was a train speeding parallel to you, traveling the same exact speed and you look out the window and see yourself in the other train, you will not be moving at all in that frame of reference. So, although you are moving and the train is moving, according to that inertial frame (where you see yourself) you are still. The term theory of relativity typically questions the earth in reference to other cosmological bodies. Relativity states that time can bend, and warp, and change. Time, on earth, is said to be constant. We have atomic clocks that inherently tell us the precise time. But in space, time changes. Time is warped. Depending on what reference point you are, time may be “normal” to you. It is relative.
I feel that this same concept of relativity can be applied to other areas of our lives. We have to remember that we are not celestial bodies in various frames of reference. We are humans with emotions. We are experiences. We are memories. We must maintain an open heart and be understanding of situations that require our relative frames of minds. Too many times I feel that we as a human race, collectively and individually, make decisions and judgements without being subjective. Every person we meet has an issue, a problem, a disappointment that we know nothing about. Every person we meet is having difficult thoughts that are discouraging. We all have them. Relativity tells us to greet these humans, sensitive and raw people that feel just as we do, with compassionate hearts and open ears relative to their situation. Do not judge. I am a true believer that within every earthly body, that proclaims a religion or not, remains a piece of good. For me, this innately “good” is implanted by a graceful God. For others, this may be a derivative of perceived consciousness. Whatever your greater self may be, look for that in other people. Seek the good. One of my favorite quotes comes from Randy Pausch, “earnest is better than hip.” When I first read this section of his book, I discounted the information in it and thought that quote was dated. But then I really dissected what this means. Being an earnest person, a person with integrity, is cooler and more rewarding than someone who does things and treats people a certain way to fit in. Be relative with people. View them from a personal, compassionate frame of reference. Treat others as if they are walking on the egg shells of life. Love people. Love them generously.
some great quotes from Randy Pausch (because The Last Lecture is one of my favorite books) and because I plan on writing about these beautiful concepts soon:
- “Go and do for others what they have done for you.”
- “No, the park is open until 8pm.”
- “If I work hard enough, there will be things I can do tomorrow that I can’t do today.”
- “We cannot change the cards we are dealt, only how we choose to play.”
- “Experience is what you get when you didn’t get what you wanted. And experience is the most valuable thing you can have.”
- “Focus on people, not things.”
- “Find the best in everybody. Just keep waiting no matter how long it takes. No one is all evil. Everybody has a good side, just keep waiting, it will come out.”
