A long time ago there were many universal beliefs and customs. There was a 'tie' or thread that ran through the different varities and sewed them loosely together. That tie was love and openness to those entities around them. Now, in this time, we are beset by religious beliefs that seem to be far, far apart. Killing on the one hand, peace on the other. It will be some time before there can be any mutual understanding. What, then , can we do in the meantime? We can look within ourselves and create our own universe. Within that universe, we can expand our understanding to look at others and their beliefs, neither accepting nor dismissing. Becoming more aware of others' beliefs will help in understanding individuals and the way they live their lives. That is not a common 'tie' but it is a step in the right direction.