"Unity is an abstract ideal. It implies harmony and agreement. And yet, "unity" is neither natural nor commonplace. Whenever individuals act in concert, there is at least one degree of separation. Original intent, enlightened self-interest, individual talents, hopes and aspirations -- all tend to push us apart."
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The Buddhists (and Hindu's, I believe, although I know less about them) might say that the solution (supposing one desired unity) was given in your quote: give up self-interest, hopes, and aspirations. Only in detachment from (selfish) desire can we achieve unity.
On another note... what the heck is the correct protocol for responding to somebody's comment in your journal? Do you put it after the comment, in your journal (where they might never see it), or in theirs (where it is completely out of context)?
Well, here it is out of context: Anna, I'm glad the email didn't require an apology. Having something of a history of social bumbling, I worry perhaps more than I should about offending people (as they say, "the mark of a true gentleman: he never gives offence unintentionally").