Today, I had a conversation with someone who seemingly could not enjoy the day due to the articles in a local newspaper. As he talked, I thought to myself: "In a world that often feels divided, there is something profound about coming together."
We are all unique individuals with our own beliefs, experiences, and backgrounds, yet the power of unity can transcend these differences. Common ground is not about sameness but about shared purpose, mutual respect, and the willingness to work together toward something greater than ourselves.
A Fellowship Beyond Differences
In Alcoholics Anonymous, I have found a fellowship beyond differences. As noted in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, Page 17, "There is a Solution": "We are people who would not normally mix. But there exists among us a fellowship, a friendliness, and an understanding which is indescribably wonderful. We are like the passengers of a great liner the moment after rescue from shipwreck when camaraderie, joyousness, and unity of feeling is everywhere."
This quote beautifully captures the essence of unity: people coming together despite differences, forming bonds that uplift and inspire. In every aspect of life—whether in recovery, community efforts, workplaces, or families—true togetherness is about supporting one another through trials and triumphs.
This unity is further strengthened in helping others. "We of AA have found that when we go out to help another alcoholic, we are sometimes filled with fear and doubts about the outcome. This is natural. But the desire to help is stronger, and that helps the person in need." – Bill Wilson, Alcoholics Anonymous Comes of Age (1957)
These acts of service go beyond just AA, however. When we reach out to help others, we often find that the bond formed in service is stronger than any differences that may exist. Fear and doubt may exist, but the desire to uplift another can overcome them. This applies to all relationships—whether in friendships, communities, or even among strangers.
As Henry Ford has said: "Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success." Taking this one step further, "It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit." – Harry S. Truman
Collaboration fuels progress.
When we set aside pride and work for the good of the whole, we unlock incredible potential. No single person has all the answers, but together, we create something stronger and more enduring.
In today's world, all our lives are interwoven. "We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men." – Herman Melville Teamwork divides the task and multiplies the success.
Taking the thought to a higher level, we are deeply interconnected, whether we recognize it or not. Every action, every decision, and every effort ripples outward, affecting those around us. When we embrace our interconnectedness, we move forward together with greater strength and purpose.
Unity in Faith and Purpose
Quoting 1 Peter 3:8-9: "Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing."
"And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them." – Moses 7:18
"And now, my beloved brethren, let us labor diligently; for if we should cease to labor, we should be brought under condemnation; for we have a labor to perform whilst in this tabernacle of clay, that we may conquer the enemy of all righteousness." – Moroni 9:6
From scripture to everyday life, unity is a principle that transforms. It calls us to serve, to uplift, and to work together in righteousness. True togetherness creates a world where no one is left behind, where love and service triumph over division.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
Finding common ground is more than a concept—it’s a way of living. It’s choosing to listen rather than argue, to serve rather than isolate, and to build rather than divide. Whether in faith, community, or daily interactions, embracing togetherness is one of the most powerful things we can do.
Let us be people who unite, who uplift, and who seek the good in one another. Because in the end, we are stronger together than we could ever be alone.
Good Morning
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