Conscience

              If conscience is the difference or the recognition of right and wrong and it acts as a guide, how then do we know what is right and wrong in different areas of the world? Views, tribal traditions, cultures, and environments are vastly different and varied. Religious beliefs are so widely separated that it is sometimes almost impossible to find a common thread. Even those who belong to a particular group may disagree on their beliefs, whereas some in very strictly organized and closely supervised groups, members may feel that any deviation from the group thought is disloyal. In some cases it is obvious that if a particular line of thought is not followed then that person is dismissed.

             In organized religions there is a format to be followed which is usually set out in a book. Even then, the books are interpreted differently except for those who have it interpreted for them. If conscience is that inner voice, that guide, that feeling, and it is not the same as the outer guidelines, then there is, obviously, conflict. Actions which follow depend on the type of person and how deeply the belief system is ingrained. We all need some belief system, yet many can live from few core beliefs and do quite well. Others feel lost if the system they know best is disturbed or new ideas are introduced. Introducing new ideas causes unrest and anger in many people and uneasiness in others.

              Must we always defend and fight for our beliefs to the point where there is no place for additional thought? When this newness is introduced and there is no book, then where is the guideline for living? Inside is your conscience. Inside is your guide. Inside is your knowledge, your knowing, your wisdom. Conscience works through different avenues. Some feel their conscience, some are influenced or guided by thought, and some by intuition. Why do some have more conscience than others - because some listen better or sense in a more careful way. If you are unsure as to what to do in a situation, if there does not seem to be a path that is readily available, then that is the time to listen to conscience. It is not only a guide for choices between right and wrong, but it is a guide for best living choices. Always there is free will, always the choice, but listening and being guided to the best choice is what your conscience is for and using it more often enables it to communicate more smoothly. Conscience is a pathway to truth.