For only when we love and respect something can we treat it right;
only then can we accord it the same rights we assume for ourselves;
only then can we “love our neighbor as ourselves.”
Even if we do not feel that love,
we are protected from wrong action by the divine law,
which prescribes the right behavior –
or at least the right attitude –
suitable for every relevant occasion.
The universe is of God, from God, created by God,
But the universe is not God,
because God is beyond all worlds and beyond the universe
– even though God is also within
even the tiniest particle.
God is the Source of the intelligent universe;
it rejoices in our rejoicings,
it celebrates in our celebrations,
it dances with our dance.
We cannot know the inner state or station
of a God-realized human being.
Like everyone else,
his inner experience is hidden from our eyes.
But we can deduce his quality by his behavior,
his ethics, which provide a sure-fire indication.
The Godly person is always full of love
and compassion towards other beings
and acts accordingly,
because God’s light
and compassion
flow out of such a person and
into the world