The Special Adapter, “Airlock,” We Need for Self-Transformation
Human beings, by nature, are inherently egocentric, individualistic, and subjective. From birth, we exist in personal bubbles, driven by the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain. This self-centered approach to life prevents us from truly connecting with others. We often see other people merely as tools to further our own pleasures or to help us escape discomfort. In many ways, our existence is marked by competition, rivalry, and a relentless drive to succeed, frequently at the expense of others.
Paradoxically, despite our individualistic tendencies, we find ourselves living in a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected. The modern world has evolved into a global system of integration and interdependence. In this system, our survival and well-being depend on cooperation, much like the workings of a well-oiled machine or the harmonious functioning of healthy cells within a living organism.
This shift toward interdependence is not driven by human ideologies, religious doctrines, or philosophical musings. It is a reflection of nature’s unchanging, all-encompassing laws. Nature operates on the principles of balance, homeostasis, and mutual support, and all living systems, including humanity, are integral parts of this complex web. The creation and nurturing of life are only possible due to the universal laws governing nature’s balance.
Given this reality, we are faced with a significant challenge: we must adapt ourselves to align with nature’s integrated system. However, our inherent selfishness and egocentric tendencies create a significant obstacle. To overcome this, we need something akin to an “airlock,” a special adapter that allows us to transition from our natural, self-centered state to one that is more in harmony with nature’s demands.
Just as astronauts use an airlock to adjust to the conditions of outer space before leaving their spacecraft, humans require a special environment that helps us adjust to the conditions of mutual interdependence. This “adapter” acts as a protective coating over our selfish nature, allowing us to behave in ways that align with the cooperative, interconnected reality of nature.
This special environment must be composed of individuals who are mutually committed and supportive of one another. In this setting, people engage in activities designed to teach and practice interconnectedness, learning how to function like perfectly aligned cogwheels or healthy cells in a body. Through constant efforts, these individuals strive to place the needs of others above their own, gradually cultivating an attitude of selflessness and unconditional service.
To achieve this transformation, a specific method is required — one that guides these individuals in their efforts and enables them to tap into the natural forces that promote development. These forces help to neutralize the negative effects of egoism and individualism, allowing new qualities to emerge. With these new qualities, individuals can begin to appreciate and serve others genuinely, creating a harmonious and mutually beneficial environment, much like cells working together to sustain the life of a single organism.
Through this process, people can rise above their inherent distrust and rejection of others to achieve a level of mutual integration. This integration mirrors the way nature itself functions, fostering cooperation and complementarity between individuals. As a result, those who undergo this transformation become not only integrated into nature’s system but also retain their independence as conscious participants in its processes.
Even if this transformation occurs within a small group of people, the benefits extend far beyond the group itself. Those who have undergone this change acquire a unique ability to see humanity from an internal perspective, untainted by egoism and subjective biases. This sensitivity allows them to empathize with others, free from the usual judgments and criticisms driven by self-interest.
Moreover, these transformed individuals can serve as benevolent educators and leaders for the rest of humanity. Their newfound perspective and understanding enable them to guide others who are not yet ready for this transition, helping them prepare for their own journey toward self-transformation.
In conclusion, our inherently egocentric nature presents a significant challenge to achieving the interconnected, cooperative existence that nature demands of us. However, by creating a special environment — an “airlock” — where people can practice selflessness and mutual support, we can begin to adapt ourselves to the integrated system of nature. This transformation not only benefits the individuals involved but also has the potential to inspire and guide the rest of humanity toward a more harmonious, interconnected future.