Patel's Search for Religious Pluralism

In searching for one's identity, one must confront and explore their history to find where and how they fit in. Heritage, culture and traditions all reflect the experiences within an individual’s religious community. The personal story that Eboo Patel shares in "Acts of Faith”, gives way to the enormous possibilities that arise from surrounding yourself with progressive thinkers and active public servants. The light that shines on Patel's grassroots interfaith meetings arose from common ideals; the search for truth and compassion for humanity and diversity!

The interfaith programs placed value on religious harmony, sharing an open dialogue, which embraced religious pluralism. Patel's personal journey in finding his religious identity stems from his experiences in India. A subtle transformation became realized in his early adult years that getting angry and fighting the system were counterproductive. The America that shunned him could embrace him, but he just didn't know where he fit in yet. Writings of Malcolm X and Elijah Muhammad played into his racial injustices and need to demonize American and it's dark past. Pluralistic writings and views of James Baldwin persuaded Patel's softer side..."saying that love between people of different identities was not only possible but necessary, and that we had to insist on it."(Patel, pg.89) As Elizabeth Plantz explains in her book “Bridging the Gap: Islam in America”, “…they may soon outnumber Jews, making them the second largest religious group in the United States.” (Plantz, pg. 1)

As leadership qualities and confidence build, scholarly readings opened Patel's eyes to a diverse religious fulfillment. Patel and his group of like-minded visionaries seek community support by human contact and connection. Patel learned of "ubuntu" while searching spiritual principles in South Africa, "people are people through other people." (Patel, 116) Throughout his travels to India, South Africa, meeting the Dalai Lama and his work in Chicago, Patel soon discovered the many layers he shared with his interfaith group/meetings and activist circles. As his friend Jeff explained to Eboo early on, "the most important thing you can learn is how to turn an idea into reality."(Patel, pg. 45)

The roots of the diverse interfaith movement act on life's injustices and bring a powerful and positive force globally. Enlightened religious groups make bridges to connect a pluralistic existence. Violence breeds violence, and if we don't change our outlooks on tolerance, democracy and religious pluralism; we will repeat the past over religious dominance and radicalism.

Patel's multi-ethnic friendships were a beneficial to his inner growth and self-realization. Mormon friends, Jewish friends, Christian friends alike found core beliefs to tap into and change the quality of life for others, a sacrifice which benefits everyone.

Patel, Eboo "Act of Faith". Beacon Press, Boston, MA.2007. pg. 77-180
Platz, Elizabeth, “Bridging the Gap: Islam in America”, www.islamfortoday.com/library.htm