Have You Seen God?
I have — the God of Spinoza !
I strongly believe in the supreme power that created this wonderful world, planets, mountains, rivers, people, and all matter around us. It could be the power of the Universe, God, the Cosmic, or something completely different. But in my view, there is a power within and around us, and it guides us in every activity.
If we are theists, it is God’s power; otherwise, this is our internal power developed by our knowledge and wisdom. Whatever the origin could be, its ultimate purpose is to bring peace to ourselves and the rest of the world.
I was delighted when my life coach Pradeepa introduced the God of Spinoza during our coaching sessions. It was an Aha moment for me because I realized that I had seen God many times.
Who is the God of Spinoza?
God of Spinoza — the God whom Albert Einstein strongly believed in.
Baruch Spinoza (1632–1677) was a Dutch philosopher of Portuguese Jewish origin who is considered one of the great rationalists of his time with the French philosopher René Descartes. According to him, God is not the world’s creator, but the world is part of God. Therefore, the best way to praise God is to take care of yourself, your health, relationships, and the world around you and keep them in peace.
My Experiences with God
A Great Doctor, a Generous Friend, and a Determined Human
Almost a decade ago, while I was in Chennai, India, one evening around 6 p.m. , I sobbed uncontrollably in a worship place in front of a Godly statue, praying for my father’s recovery. My father and my three-year-old son got injured in an accident during a severe cyclone the day before. Fortunately, my son received only minor scratches, but my father suffered a severe spinal cord injury.
We rushed my father to a well-known hospital nearby, where doctors informed us that he would have to spend the rest of his life in bed due to his age and current condition.
By personality, my father is a very active person, and age is nothing more than a number to him. I can’t imagine him remaining immobile his entire life. I surrendered to God after hearing the same thing from a few other doctors.
After an hour of praying and crying, I received a phone call from a family friend, who recommended another Spinal cord specialist. I gathered all of my courage and decided to meet him. Fortunately, I was able to get an appointment quickly and met with the doctor at 10 p.m.
He acknowledged that the situation was critical, but he could try a complex surgery if all of us agreed. That too in the early morning, as he ought to travel abroad immediately following the surgery. My father chose right away, but the rest of the family was tense. We got him admitted to the new hospital the same night, and the surgery went off for more than 4 hours, starting at 6 a.m., without a hitch. My father cooperated well with the medical crew during and after the surgery, was able to walk within four weeks, and is still active today. Touchwood!
I saw God in the doctor who helped my father regain his ability to walk and in generosity of my close friend, who assisted me with the financial aspects of the surgery. And, I continue to see divinity in my father’s willpower!
A Genuine Co-Passenger
Another time I encountered God was on a long night’s journey. I had to spend the night in a rural area of Southern India long back. I was traveling by public transportation by myself. I had to sit next to a male co-passenger for the whole night because no other seats were available. It was highly unusual for a girl to sit next to an unknown male during that period, especially at night. I hesitated at first but later agreed because there were no other options. To my delight, the guy was so genuine and well-behaved throughout the journey. Unfortunately, all the passengers had to switch buses because there was a breakdown in the middle of the night. During the bus transfer, he was highly protective and supportive. After that, I never saw him again, but I resolved to instill those Godly values in my son!
An Authentic Leader
I had to change jobs during peak COVID times. I was under a lot of stress for various reasons, but I was actively interviewing.
I was dumbstruck during one of my interviews, even though I knew the answer very well to a question.
“Take some time, structure your thoughts, and then answer, no hurry,” the interviewer said with compassion. That made me breathe a sigh of relief. The interview continued for an hour, and I got selected for the role.
My favorite boss ever is the interviewer ! He could have easily moved on to another candidate after seeing me stuck. But instead, he realized my potential and encouraged me, demonstrating his leadership abilities through empathy and compassion. It was in his kindness that I felt a sense of Godliness.
From then on, whenever I find myself getting a little lost, I remember the conversation and return to the present with a big smile:) !
I also ensure to be compassionate to others, especially my interviewees, who come with some jitters.
I’ve seen God in myself as well!
I coached a fresh graduate on his job search. He was born in a war-torn country and witnessed many hardships at a young age; he had a few years of a break after high school; all his family remained back in his home country. Yet, despite all this, he made to immigrate to a new land and enroll in a university and work hard to secure good grades.
I happily guided him through the entire job search process, and he quickly picked up things. I was overjoyed when he got his first job. There are no words to describe how satisfied I felt when I saw the smile on his face.
Gods are always selfless; their desire to give brings them true joy!
Every day, I see God in the innocent smiles of children, in the gracious eyes of kind-hearted adults, and the selfless mother Nature who nurtures millions of organisms.
Closing thoughts
God is within us and around us, everywhere! We can experience the presence of God by being grateful to those who made a positive impact on us; and making an effort to put a smile on the faces of others through our kindness.
I would be pleased to know about your perspectives and experience with God; share them in the comments!
