Introduction
Our journey through life is crazy and unpredictable, from trials and tribulations to goals, dreams, and aspirations. At some point, everyone has a wildest dream or a vision for how they want their life to be. For me, my wildest imagination came from my troubled past. I aspire to become a Life Coach who supports people looking for advice, assists them through life’s challenges and uncertainties, and teaches individuals how to set S.M.A.R.T. goals, guided meditation, and a new way of life.
Although some may consider my dream a Ponzi scheme or selling lies, I find purpose and fulfillment in helping people. I will seek guidance and wisdom from the guides and gods of Confucianism, Daoism, and Shintoism. Each religion offers a different perspective on life’s values and how each teaching will provide answers and guidance to my wildest dreams.
Various Religious Perspectives on Life and Personal Dream
Daoism
Daoism emphasizes living a harmonious life with the Dao (the way), teaching one to flow with the natural current of life. “So the Dao is, broadly speaking, the way of the universe and the way of human life that ideally ties into it” (Van Voorst, 170). A Daoist would likely encourage me to embrace my wildest dream and be adaptable.
At the same time, promoting the importance of going with the flow, adjusting to my circumstances, and not forcefully imposing my will on the world. A Daoist modo teaches us that striving too much for a nontraditional way of living may create resistance and frustration. Instead, learning to listen and understand the guidance of the Dao and trust the unfolding of natural events.
Confucianism
On the contrary, unlike Daoism, Confucianism places value on order, virtue, and duty. ” Confucius and his followers, on the other hand, have viewed themselves as the yang, the active and assertive side of life” (Van Voorst, 180). From the perspective of a Confucian, choosing to live an unconventional lifestyle is evaluated based on its effect on society and one’s relationships. Confucious stresses the importance of fulfilling social roles and obligations.
A Confucian would advise me to consider the virtues and responsibilities connected with my dream. I place great importance on cultivating more ethical values, maintaining harmony in my relationships, and fulfilling my duties to my community and family. Confucianism values individual growth and self-improvement; it does so in the parameters of society’s harmony and righteousness.
Shintoism
Shintoism is found to be deeply rooted in Japanese culture and spirituality, worshiping the kami (spirits) and a connection to nature. “In general, Shinto ethics are based not on a set of commands or of virtues that tells one how to behave, but on following the general will of the kami, understood through myth and ritual” (Van Voorst, 197).
When it comes to a Shintoist perspective on my wildest dream, it will revolve around living in sync with nature and the hearts of my ancestors. Shintoism would encourage me to honor the kami and the environment while pursuing a nontraditional way of life. This may include rituals, visiting essential shrines, and caring for the atmosphere. A Shintoist would advise me to bring attention to how life intertwines while maintaining the importance of a deep respect for nature and the spirits.
Comparison
These three religions offer a unique approach to following my greatest ambition. These religions share many similarities, such as the importance of harmony and balance, but their advice also proves many differences. Daoism and Shintoism share the concept of living connected to the natural world. Daoism is more focused on the Dao as an abstract concept, whereas Shintoism emphasizes the tangible presence of kami in nature.
On the other hand, Confucianism emphasizes fulfilling one’s social role and responsibilities, which may require me to reconsider aspects of my nontraditional aspiration to preserve harmony, balance, and social order. Ultimately, the wisdom offered by these three religions may provide valuable insight and guidance on my journey toward my wildest dream. Daoism encourages me to adapt and flow through life’s circumstances, Confucianism advises me to reconsider my ethical duties to society, and Shintoism reminds me to honor my ancestors’ spirits and the natural world. Offering a unique approach to my dream and incorporating elements of all three religions to create the best path that aligns with my values and beliefs while respecting how we are all connected in life.
Conclusion
In pursuing my wildest dream, I can see how the richness and diversity of human wisdom can guide me. Daoism, Confucianism, and Shintoism offer insights and perspectives to help me navigate the challenges and opportunities that may arise on my unique journey. Daoist emphasis on the flow of natural order, Confucian focus on ethical duty, and Shintoist reverence for ancestor spirits and nature provide me with a holistic approach to living a nontraditional or alternate way of life. By adopting these teachings, I can strive to achieve my dream while maintaining harmony, balance, and respect for our world and the values that resonate with my soul. The journey is just as important as the destination. With the wisdom of these three religions, I am more equipped to embark on this adventure with a deep sense of purpose and direction.
Work Cited
Van Voorst, Robert. RELG: World. 4th ed, Cengage Learning, 2020.