Brotherhood - A Fellowship of Cooperation

by Robert Wilkinson

Here's another gem from "Brotherhood," of the remarkable Agni Yoga series. Today's offering may help clarify the bond that unites all who share a dedication to making a better world. I chose the title in the interest of moving beyond gender distinctions, as I believe that Fellowship is a valid substitute for the conceptual terms "Brotherhood" and "Sisterhood."

This link takes you to a previous piece and explains a little about the author and her husband, both pretty amazing beings in their own right. From Brotherhood,

166. Once again let us affirm the distinction between cooperation and Brotherhood. I note a puzzlement about this, as if the two concepts were identical. But they are different steps. Cooperation is definitely expressed in outward action, but Brotherhood is conceived in the depths of the consciousness. Co-workers may differ in the degree of consciousness attained, whereas brothers will sense each other precisely according to consciousness. Brothers may not be working together outwardly, but their thinking will be strongly knit together. They will be united freely; their unity will not be a burdensome yoke or a bondage. But precisely these brothers will understand unity as a powerful motive force for the good of the world. It is impossible to place limits upon such unity, for its basis will be love. Thus, cooperation will be a preparation for the realization of Brotherhood.

And of course Sisterhood. And Fellowship.