Was having a discussion with my Mom a few nights ago and came to a interesting conclusion: Buddha and Hitler goals in life were identical on one level. How is this possible? Because I believe their souls were after exactly the same thing – to have their soul’s purpose align exactly with the universe’s purpose. The only difference was their approach to this goal.

Hitler (and many political/religious leaders before and since) took the approach of trying to change the world to fit his view of how it should be. If he could have managed to change it then his soul would be in alignment with the world. Of course, this approach causes nothing but anger and strife because it is a fight that is impossible to win. The world will not change to meet your desires.

The Buddha (and many spiritual leaders before and since) took the approach of trying to change himself to match his view of how the world is. This is still a monumental task, but one that might be achieved in a few lifetimes. This approach can deliver love and trust because the Buddha was willing to accept all things around him, rather than fight those things in an effort to change them to his world view. You can change your desires to meet the world.

I can’t say for sure that my Mother agreed with my conclusion, but as always, she was willing to listen.