When things are at their worst on the planet, highly evolved beings appear to show a better way of living. The presence of a highly evolved soul in a human body is called an Avatar. The era that we currently live in is regarded as an age of darkness in Hindu philosophy. Buddhist refers to our times as the “dharma ending age”. Look back the brutality of the 20th century which is characterized by multiple world wide wars, intolerant dictatorships, the emergence of cruel leaders, and the complete disregard of basic human rights.
In spite of horrific suffering and killing, the 20th century has produced “avatars”, beings who show a more noble path -
Mahatma Ghandi and peaceful resistance to colonial oppressors;
Mother Teresa and the power of love;
Martin Luther King, Jr., and non violence;
Dalai Lama and compassion;
Thich Nhat Hanh and peace.
Hinduism would describe each of these individuals as “avatars”, the Divine in human form appearing to counteract the evil of the world. Through their lives they model a more a higher way of living and through their teachings they promote the ideal of a non-violent planet.
Our world has benefited greatly from the presence of these great souls. Consider this, however: there are many more such “avatars” though they are hidden from public view. They are made up of ordinary women and men who, in their communities, counties and countries who promote and work toward establishing greater peace, harmony and compassion. Each one of us ought to view ourselves as “avatars” doing our part to help others vibrate higher and brighter.