Mankind is like a Magnet

When studying basic physics we are taught about the fundamental structure of magnetic iron.  We are told that a piece of iron contains countless little molecules of iron that form dipoles.  These dipoles are each a molecule sized magnet.  If one could isolate one of these dipoles it would align like a compass with the magnet field around the earth.

The difference between a magnetized piece of iron and one that is not a magnet is the randomness of the orientation of these dipoles.  It is much like a democracy, each dipole votes for a direction to point.  In a true random piece of iron there is no magnetic field produced because the dipoles cancel each other out.  For every dipole pointing in a particular direction, there is another pointing in the opposite direction.  If we can influence this random arrangement, the piece of iron becomes what we call “magnetized.”

I find a striking similarity between this fact about iron and magnets and mankind.  We too can each be seen as a dipole.  We have our opinions, beliefs, needs, tendencies, etc.  Our direction regarding such things is based on the influences that we have met during our time alive.  The dipole metaphor can be extended to include the fact that our opinions are always changing.  From day to day or even minute to minute our ideas evolve.  The question, as it pertains to mankind, becomes a question of majorities over time.  Our small life (approximately 100 years) has a very small influence on the true nature of mankind.  Our individual correctness is always a function of the direction we take in the moment of decision in everything we do.  Decisions cause results and create impact on others.

The overall nature of mankind is a function of the net sum of our individual orientations.  Over the history of man we can follow the influencers that affected our politics and religious beliefs.  The history of God revealing himself is told quite completely in the Bible.  The gift of instructions on how to live our lives was perfectly demonstrated by Jesus the Son of God and the inspiration available to us at every minute we live in the Holy Spirit.  These are without doubt primary influencers of mankind today.  Even the dialog offered by those claiming to be atheist for the most part is biased toward respect for each other and life.

The fact is that God has biased us toward love regardless of our beliefs.  We are in His image!

It is not possible to understand the big picture in our lifetime and probably in the time that our Universe has remaining.  The only thing for sure is that each of us has to decide moment by moment which way to point. 

I choose toward God as I understand to be correct.  I accept the lessons taught by Jesus and the guidance offered by that small voice inside my head, The Holy Spirit.  At least my dipole is influenced to help as much as possible.  Now, you the reader must make your choice.  No, you cannot choose to not be a dipole!

By: David C Mims Sr.