Very articulately written my friend, and also put forward in an accessible way. I totally agree with these sentiments, we are consciousness gradually expanding and refining. It's a funny interplay between the individual nodes and the collective as a whole.
Indeed, as we grow in consciousness not only do we develop our own self-responsibility, but we also grow in awareness of others which includes not only fellow humans but plants, animals and what we term "inanimate' objects. Our consciousness expands within and without, so to speak.
Blessings upon your head @phillyc. Hope you are well.