Chapter 71: Mutual obedience in the monastery

Obedience is of such value that it should be shown not only to the superior but all members of the community should be obedient to each other in the sure knowledge that this way of obedience is the one that will take them straight to God.

(From para. 1 of Ch. 71 of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry OSB, 1997.)

It seems to me that mutual obedience is based on authentic self-knowledge and respect for "that of God" in everyone. This is a perception much deeper than the "good guy/bad guy" mentality prevalent in our culture. True, deep perception of my own human nature  -- a fruit of meditation -- leads me towards compassion for others, and unity in the Spirit.