10 Commandments
The Ten Commandments are a guiding force in my life, providing me with guidelines for my thoughts, words, and deeds. Some of the commandments are common sense and relatively easy to follow. For example, the prohibition of murder is a universal ethical law. Not stealing is another. I have no problem envisioning and worshiping only one God. However, the modern world makes strict interpretations of the commandments difficult. The commandment against false idols may seem silly but a closer examination of our society reveals that we have many false idols including celebrity status and wealth. Whenever we become obsessed with fame or fortune we move one step away from our spiritual path.
Refraining from taking the Lord's name in vain is also hard, considering the way we use language carelessly in casual conversations. Television and movies are littered with curse words and the Lord's name is constantly being thrown around carelessly. While I strive to remove careless cursing from my daily speech, when I am angry or upset, or when I am not thinking as I laugh at a joke, I slip. Another way that most people including me stray from the commandments is by not honoring the Sabbath. I try to attend religious services as often as possible. Often the responsibilities of work and school prevent me from fulfilling this commandment.
Not coveting our neighbor's "wife" and house also seem like simple tasks but in practice are difficult to execute. For example, we live in a very competitive society in which material goods are valued more than morality. Advertisements bombard us with imagery that makes consumers feel unworthy if they do not have the latest big-screen television or a new car. Therefore, coveting what others have becomes a part of our daily consciousness.
We will never truly feel adequate unless we surrender to our spiritual path and take the commandments to heart as much as possible. I might not be perfect, but I can make an effort to embody the commandments, making choices that reflect my moral truth. Refraining from jealousy, acting out in anger, or materialism are some initial efforts I can make to manifest the ten commandments in my life.
