SHARED WISDOM

as a whole instead of the individuals who comprise it is not a realistic approach. The natural fact is that it is not ‘the system’ or ‘society’ but, rather, individuals who play all the various social roles, and so, it is individuals who must change if we want society as a whole to change. Since individuals are the building blocks of society, if one wants to bring about any real change in society, one will have to begin one’s efforts at the level of the individual. One will have to bring about a change in the thinking and conduct of individuals on positive lines. This point has direct relevance for relations between religious communities. Harmonious relations between religious communities can only arise so that individual members relate harmoniously. This requires a transformation of the consciousness of individual members of the various communities to value people of other faiths, appreciate the goodness in their religions, cultures, and ways of life, and be committed to living in harmony with them. DUTIES BEFORE RIGHTS A duty-conscious mindset seeks to fulfill the rights of others. Duty consciousness, in developing a giving character in an individual, lays the foundation for a better society and can help promote relations between different communities in a plural society. Focusing on one’s duties or responsibilities towards the wider society helps resolve conflicts and, in the long