The second Law of Physics teaches us that two objects cannot occupy the same space. But can different thoughts occupy the same mind? Can one heart love more than one soul at the same time? Can one nation come together despite their differences in religious beliefs?
URI Global Executive Team and MENA Region Coordinator visit the Jordanian Interfaith Coexistence Research CenterJordanian Interfaith Coexistence Research Center.
The second Law of Physics teaches us that two objects cannot occupy the same space. But can different thoughts occupy the same mind? Can one heart love more than one soul at the same time? Can one nation come together despite their differences in religious beliefs?
Yes, it can. And we can take Jordan as an example of that. Jordan being geographically located in between the Middle East and North Africa brings in its roots a natural convergence of faiths. The majority of its population is Muslim, and while still being a minority, Christianity plays a big role in building a national cultural identity.
You see, these two religions co-exist in the same geographical region on the world map. And whilst co-existing is not a matter of choice, as one cannot choose where to be born, for instance, co-living in peace and harmony is.
When the URI Global Leadership team and I visited Jordan, last March, we were welcomed by Very Rev. Fr. Nabil D. Haddad, the Founder and Executive Director of the Jordanian Interfaith Coexistence Research Center, at his Church, in Amman (the capital of Jordan). We had the opportunity to listen to his experience of living together in peace, being a respected leader of a local religious minority (Christians), and being respected by political and religious leaders of the majority (Muslims).
This comes from his understanding of Amman being "at the calling to be the city of brotherly love". It is their mission (the Christians) to contribute to the building of a peaceful co-living in a country where co-existing is the natural rule one can (and should) not change.
"How could we brag about 2000 years of Christian presence, 1400 years of Islamic-Christian co-existence without giving credit to my Muslim neighbors? We live amicably here in Jordan. We do. [...] Christianity teaches me to love all. And I can argue with any Muslim who says something different about Islam".
Although we cannot defy the laws of physics, may we take this fact - as well as Father Nabil's leadership experience - as an opportunity to be inspired to unite ourselves in the world, embracing our differences in beliefs, faiths, and creeds - as one -, so we can all (co)live in the same space, together and in peace.
* Islam and Christianity are the two religions officially recognized by Jordan's Majesty, King Abdullah II, and his Kingdom.