I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who took the time to read my blogs and comment on them. I loved the input and it often gave me a new perspective about the topic I had discussed.
This class has rocked my world whether I wanted to admit it or not throughout the semester, and I'm really glad I signed up for it! It has helped me to build my own views as well as helped me to understand the view of others. It also has made it easier for me to accept people for who they are and worry less about other people and instead focus on what I cna do to better myself.
I'm sure that is all so cliche and you're ready to barf if you're reading this, but it is very true and I hope you've learned something from it as well.
Jason - if you're reading (haha) - I think you've done an awesome job of keeping things very neutral and open in the class and I think it made learning all the easier.
Thanks for everything, everyone!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Ludwig Wittgenstein
What an awesome passage! There is no other way to describe it. The first blurb really popped out at me and when I read it my first thought was (excuse the language) “Well, no sh*t.” It wasn’t in a negative way, but more in a way that it boggled my mind. What an amazing way to convey the idea of being happy with what you have and where you are! He said “the place I really have to reach is where I must already be.” It really hits home with the idea of relishing what you have in the moment and being happy with where you are in your life. I think it goes hand-in-hand with the idea that everything happens for a reason. I realize some people don’t believe that, but I do and it may be a coping mechanism, but it works for me. Regardless of if you believe that or not, it is always good to be grateful for the moment despite failed goals, ruined expectations or bad news. If you don’t live your life in the moment you are truly missing out on some of the best times.
He also talks about how we see people blind to problems in their lives and how it annoys us, basically. I thought that was a funny topic to touch on, but well worth mentioning. I don’t think any of us can say we haven’t thought that someone in our lives is doing something wrong or that they have a problem they can’t see. However, it is all relative! We may think they have a problem, but who is to say they agree? My mom may think my fiancé isn’t going anywhere fast in life, but I think he is learning the most valuable lessons about life that he could right now and things will pick up for us when they’re supposed to and we’ve learned the lessons we needed to learn. I think one of my friends could stop sabotaging his relationships, but hey, he wouldn’t have them any other way. And in all honesty, would he relaly be the person he is if he were any different? It is not our job to judge what is a problem to other people as it isn’t their job to judge us.
He also talks about how we see people blind to problems in their lives and how it annoys us, basically. I thought that was a funny topic to touch on, but well worth mentioning. I don’t think any of us can say we haven’t thought that someone in our lives is doing something wrong or that they have a problem they can’t see. However, it is all relative! We may think they have a problem, but who is to say they agree? My mom may think my fiancé isn’t going anywhere fast in life, but I think he is learning the most valuable lessons about life that he could right now and things will pick up for us when they’re supposed to and we’ve learned the lessons we needed to learn. I think one of my friends could stop sabotaging his relationships, but hey, he wouldn’t have them any other way. And in all honesty, would he relaly be the person he is if he were any different? It is not our job to judge what is a problem to other people as it isn’t their job to judge us.
Kuei-Shan
This passage was so to-the-point! I think the short length of this passage made it profound. When Keui-Shan said “what he hears and sees are ordinary sights and sounds, but nothing is distorted” it really jumped out at me. I think it is always the profoundly simple things that stick out to me, but with good reason. It continuously brings me back to the simple things in life that we take for granted all too often. In this instance, it jumped out at me because it reminded me of when I was younger. My mom would take my sister and I to Golden Gate Park (in San Francisco) and we’d lay in the grass and close our eyes. Every time we’d just listen to nature and inevitable one of us would say “I’ve never heard that before.” It wasn’t that it was a new animal making the sound we’d heard, it was the fact that we’d never slowed down enough to hear it in the first place. When you truly just sit and listen (which also helps in meditation), I think you can hear the world for what it is – nothing more and nothing less.
I also liked the part where he said “Because he has eliminated … bad thinking habits …” because it makes a great point: We can have negative or bad thought patterns that we are able to change in order to better ourselves. It is a relatively obscure concept, but it is a revelation in and of itself. We have to recognize that we can rid ourselves of negative views or preconceptions and that it will make us better in the long-run. In this case, it makes you a Zen Master!
I also liked the part where he said “Because he has eliminated … bad thinking habits …” because it makes a great point: We can have negative or bad thought patterns that we are able to change in order to better ourselves. It is a relatively obscure concept, but it is a revelation in and of itself. We have to recognize that we can rid ourselves of negative views or preconceptions and that it will make us better in the long-run. In this case, it makes you a Zen Master!
Monday, April 13, 2009
Rilke
What a nice and unexpected read this was. Although the first long passage was a pleasure to read, the second passage was what jumped out at me.
The passage talks about the importance of patience and I think it is a really important virtue to talk about. We can jokingly say, “Patience is a virtue” but it rarely really sets in or clicks with people. How can you change how patient you are (or are not)? Well, just accept that things will come in time and do not be disappointed if it doesn’t come at all. It goes back to the Buddhist teaching that when we end desire we end suffering. Just be and let things happen. Whether it be waiting for a boyfriend or girlfriend to call you back, life-changing news from a doctor or simply waiting to see your child smile at you, you cannot force it to happen and you have to just wait for it to happen. I used to really struggle with waiting – waiting for everything, too – but now I relish the time I spend waiting because to me it isn’t “waiting” at all. Now, I see time spent as time I have to myself to do the things I’ve been meaning to do and I’ve found that I’m so much more productive and satisfied. And once the thing I’ve been waiting for comes along, it is all the better and means so much more.
Another passage that I really liked was the second to last, which said that one of “the most difficult task that has been entrusted to us” is that of loving our fellow human beings. We’ve talked about this in class and I couldn’t help but mention it again. Someone had said that it is truly one of the hardest things to be nice to one another, especially in the face of torment or ridicule. Luckily I haven’t had too much drama in my life in the past few years, but when I did it was so hard to just let things go and just love whoever was the cause of issue. It is easy to get caught up in the moment of the pain and only see the other person as an embodiment of what they’ve said, but they are so much more. They are a human, with a vulnerable body and feelings and a family and they are simply learning how to live their life just like me. When I think of it that way it is much easier to forgive and forget and just accept people for who they are instead of seeing them for their faults. I’m not perfect, though, and it very well may be the hardest thing to do in life!
The passage talks about the importance of patience and I think it is a really important virtue to talk about. We can jokingly say, “Patience is a virtue” but it rarely really sets in or clicks with people. How can you change how patient you are (or are not)? Well, just accept that things will come in time and do not be disappointed if it doesn’t come at all. It goes back to the Buddhist teaching that when we end desire we end suffering. Just be and let things happen. Whether it be waiting for a boyfriend or girlfriend to call you back, life-changing news from a doctor or simply waiting to see your child smile at you, you cannot force it to happen and you have to just wait for it to happen. I used to really struggle with waiting – waiting for everything, too – but now I relish the time I spend waiting because to me it isn’t “waiting” at all. Now, I see time spent as time I have to myself to do the things I’ve been meaning to do and I’ve found that I’m so much more productive and satisfied. And once the thing I’ve been waiting for comes along, it is all the better and means so much more.
Another passage that I really liked was the second to last, which said that one of “the most difficult task that has been entrusted to us” is that of loving our fellow human beings. We’ve talked about this in class and I couldn’t help but mention it again. Someone had said that it is truly one of the hardest things to be nice to one another, especially in the face of torment or ridicule. Luckily I haven’t had too much drama in my life in the past few years, but when I did it was so hard to just let things go and just love whoever was the cause of issue. It is easy to get caught up in the moment of the pain and only see the other person as an embodiment of what they’ve said, but they are so much more. They are a human, with a vulnerable body and feelings and a family and they are simply learning how to live their life just like me. When I think of it that way it is much easier to forgive and forget and just accept people for who they are instead of seeing them for their faults. I’m not perfect, though, and it very well may be the hardest thing to do in life!
Symeon the New Theologian
First of all, why does he get to be the “New Theologian”? Anyway, this was such a short, simple and sweet reading. All of it spoke to me on one level or another and really made me think. I love it when that happens!
The first passage was such a great metaphor for how people live in general. “When he dives into the water, he can no longer see anything outside, and he knows only that his whole body is in the water.” When we dive into the scenarios of our life or the routine even, we tend to close ourselves off from the things outside of what we know and can only see what we want. It is as if we walk through life with blinders on and can’t fathom a world beyond what we see. It is when we consciously take those blinders off and approach the world with wonder that we find the most fulfillment and are able to learn something new.
“The more a man enters the light of understanding, the more aware he is of his own ignorance.” I had to read that sentence twice before it hit me like a ton of bricks. It is so true that the more we learn the more we are able to acknowledge how little we know. It can be hard to swallow the fact that you don’t know everything you thought you knew, but it is rewarding to be able to take it in and embrace it. It keeps you humble and constantly searching and truly gives life meaning.
The third passage was so short and simple, but may be the truest of all. “When it [our mind] is emptied of thought … [it] finds nothing but the light.” Once I got into the hang of meditating this statement became true. I wasn’t even necessarily trying to meditate to be a holy being or to reach some sort of nirvana, but just to see if I could do it. When I finally was able to truly free my mind of thought and checked back in to reality I was left with a feeling of fulfillment and satisfaction and tranquility like I had never experienced before. I didn’t consider myself religious, but when that happened it was hard to deny that something had to have happened that was beyond me.
The first passage was such a great metaphor for how people live in general. “When he dives into the water, he can no longer see anything outside, and he knows only that his whole body is in the water.” When we dive into the scenarios of our life or the routine even, we tend to close ourselves off from the things outside of what we know and can only see what we want. It is as if we walk through life with blinders on and can’t fathom a world beyond what we see. It is when we consciously take those blinders off and approach the world with wonder that we find the most fulfillment and are able to learn something new.
“The more a man enters the light of understanding, the more aware he is of his own ignorance.” I had to read that sentence twice before it hit me like a ton of bricks. It is so true that the more we learn the more we are able to acknowledge how little we know. It can be hard to swallow the fact that you don’t know everything you thought you knew, but it is rewarding to be able to take it in and embrace it. It keeps you humble and constantly searching and truly gives life meaning.
The third passage was so short and simple, but may be the truest of all. “When it [our mind] is emptied of thought … [it] finds nothing but the light.” Once I got into the hang of meditating this statement became true. I wasn’t even necessarily trying to meditate to be a holy being or to reach some sort of nirvana, but just to see if I could do it. When I finally was able to truly free my mind of thought and checked back in to reality I was left with a feeling of fulfillment and satisfaction and tranquility like I had never experienced before. I didn’t consider myself religious, but when that happened it was hard to deny that something had to have happened that was beyond me.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Exorcism
Hey everyone,
I am presenting my paper topic on the 22nd, however I’d love to get your thoughts and suggestions on my topic now so I can get a jumpstart on things!
I’d love to do my paper on Exorcism. I think it is really interesting from a psychological standpoint and am excited to soak up some info about it.
So far, here are some interesting things I’ve learned:
1. Some religions require you be exorcised (of what I’m not sure yet) before you are baptized.
2. There can be an exorcism of a ghost from a property or location – but not necessarily from a person – in the event of a haunting.
3. A demon can be exorcised from a human in the event of a demonic possession (and this is the most widely-known version of an exorcism).
4. If a loved one has died abruptly, some eastern cultures will hold an exorcism of the spirit so they don’t stay trapped on earth.
I think I’ll be focusing on demonic possession and the psychological factors involved, the religions that embrace/acknowledge it, the signs and symptoms and the process of exorcising.
What do you guys think of it? Have any of you had any experience with exorcism or known someone who has? If so, what was it like and what religion are you/are they? If you haven’t had any experience with it, what do you think about it regardless?
I’d love to get your feedback, so please feel free to comment!
Thanks everyone :)
I am presenting my paper topic on the 22nd, however I’d love to get your thoughts and suggestions on my topic now so I can get a jumpstart on things!
I’d love to do my paper on Exorcism. I think it is really interesting from a psychological standpoint and am excited to soak up some info about it.
So far, here are some interesting things I’ve learned:
1. Some religions require you be exorcised (of what I’m not sure yet) before you are baptized.
2. There can be an exorcism of a ghost from a property or location – but not necessarily from a person – in the event of a haunting.
3. A demon can be exorcised from a human in the event of a demonic possession (and this is the most widely-known version of an exorcism).
4. If a loved one has died abruptly, some eastern cultures will hold an exorcism of the spirit so they don’t stay trapped on earth.
I think I’ll be focusing on demonic possession and the psychological factors involved, the religions that embrace/acknowledge it, the signs and symptoms and the process of exorcising.
What do you guys think of it? Have any of you had any experience with exorcism or known someone who has? If so, what was it like and what religion are you/are they? If you haven’t had any experience with it, what do you think about it regardless?
I’d love to get your feedback, so please feel free to comment!
Thanks everyone :)
Abi'l Khayr
This was a beautiful passage. I almost felt as though it would be a slow and steady, serene speech that would hit you to the core had you heard it aloud.
The part that really called to me the most was the very last page of the passage. It started out with “If men wish to draw near to God, they must seek him in the hearts of men.” Where have I heard that before? All over! We have seen this over and over that God is within each of us and what a beautiful sentiment it is to simply have to look into the hearts of one another to find what we are looking for.
What really struck me, however, was what followed. “They should speak well of all men … if they themselves seek to be a light to guide others … they must show the same face to all.” Like all of the other obvious but difficult sayings we’ve heard before, this one seems so basic. Still, somehow it can be so difficult for some people. It really spurred some thinking, though. If we show the same face to all does that mean we act the same way with everyone? I am googly and silly when I baby-sit, I am intellectual and quick-witted with my friends, goofy and loud with my sister and a little bit of everything with my boyfriend. I’m reserved and shy around the in-laws and new people. Does that mean I am not showing the same face? Or does it really imply that I am true to myself always and from that everyone can see I never stray from who I really am? I think it is the latter. If I am goofy, silly, loud, quiet or witty it doesn’t matter as long as I am always willing to help, always ready to keep someone from getting hurt, always willing to laugh away tears and always myself. All my moods are aspects of who I am and never affect my values and morals.
What do you think?
The part that really called to me the most was the very last page of the passage. It started out with “If men wish to draw near to God, they must seek him in the hearts of men.” Where have I heard that before? All over! We have seen this over and over that God is within each of us and what a beautiful sentiment it is to simply have to look into the hearts of one another to find what we are looking for.
What really struck me, however, was what followed. “They should speak well of all men … if they themselves seek to be a light to guide others … they must show the same face to all.” Like all of the other obvious but difficult sayings we’ve heard before, this one seems so basic. Still, somehow it can be so difficult for some people. It really spurred some thinking, though. If we show the same face to all does that mean we act the same way with everyone? I am googly and silly when I baby-sit, I am intellectual and quick-witted with my friends, goofy and loud with my sister and a little bit of everything with my boyfriend. I’m reserved and shy around the in-laws and new people. Does that mean I am not showing the same face? Or does it really imply that I am true to myself always and from that everyone can see I never stray from who I really am? I think it is the latter. If I am goofy, silly, loud, quiet or witty it doesn’t matter as long as I am always willing to help, always ready to keep someone from getting hurt, always willing to laugh away tears and always myself. All my moods are aspects of who I am and never affect my values and morals.
What do you think?
Huang Po in the Buddhahood
I laughed when I read the first part of this passage; not because it was humorous or light-hearted, but because it seems so simple. It makes so much sense though and seems so right. “It has no color or shape, neither exists nor doesn’t exist … It is what you see in front of you.” How can that be? It is everything and nothing and is right in front of us? What a clever riddle. It is hard to understand yet innately understood all at the same time and is an unanswerable riddle.
I also loved the part that said, “there is no distinction between Buddha and ordinary beings, except that ordinary beings are attached to forms and thus seek for Buddhahood outside themselves.” Buddhahood is such an awesome term in the first place, but overall it is an amazing concept. I think it is so true that humans often (not always) need something to hold onto and it manifests as a form of higher power.
“They don’t know that all they have to do is put a stop to conceptual thinking.” That is so true in so many aspects of life. Stop overanalyzing things and they usually work themselves out. Stop worrying about something and it either goes away or gets better. Really, stop following your brain all the time and follow your heart.
I think my favorite line from the first paragraph (which was my favorite overall) was the last line. “It is not any less for being manifested in ordinary beings, nor any greater for being manifested in Buddha.” That says so much. People often think themselves unworthy of things because they are not God and put a separation between them and their higher being, but it is unnecessary. We are all part of the same thing and no one thing or being is greater or less than another and we need to remember that and carry it with us.
I also loved the part that said, “there is no distinction between Buddha and ordinary beings, except that ordinary beings are attached to forms and thus seek for Buddhahood outside themselves.” Buddhahood is such an awesome term in the first place, but overall it is an amazing concept. I think it is so true that humans often (not always) need something to hold onto and it manifests as a form of higher power.
“They don’t know that all they have to do is put a stop to conceptual thinking.” That is so true in so many aspects of life. Stop overanalyzing things and they usually work themselves out. Stop worrying about something and it either goes away or gets better. Really, stop following your brain all the time and follow your heart.
I think my favorite line from the first paragraph (which was my favorite overall) was the last line. “It is not any less for being manifested in ordinary beings, nor any greater for being manifested in Buddha.” That says so much. People often think themselves unworthy of things because they are not God and put a separation between them and their higher being, but it is unnecessary. We are all part of the same thing and no one thing or being is greater or less than another and we need to remember that and carry it with us.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Albert Einstein
I thought all of Einstein’s passages were really enlightening. In his first passage he said, “[He] who can no longer wonder and stand rapt in awe, is as good as dead.” Socrates said “An unexamined life is not worth living.” Both say something similar, if not the same thing. If you can no longer take the time to stop in wonder and appreciate the world around you, why are you living? What is the purpose? To live like a drone with no emotion? Slow down, give in to your curiosity and run with it for a while. Most people find they are pleasantly surprised when they do.
Einstein also said a few things that really reminded me of Buddhism. First he said, “The true nature of a human being can be found in the degree to which he has attained liberation from the self.” And secondly, he talked about how “Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living beings and all of nature.” Amen! It sounded like something right out of our Buddhism lecture. It also made me think of how interesting it was the he referred to the illusion of consciousness as a prison and suggested we needed to be free of it. Why would we need to be free of our illusory consciousness? It is what we live through every day and often don’t know how to live any other way. His answer is to embrace everything and anything with compassion. How simple. Get over yourself, your drama, your problems, your desire, your life and simply love and be loved. It sounds pretty Utopian, I suppose, and reminds me of the question “Can’t we all just get along?” But it is so necessary. Really, just have an open mind and don’t judge others – accept them, help them, love them and appreciate it all.
Einstein also said a few things that really reminded me of Buddhism. First he said, “The true nature of a human being can be found in the degree to which he has attained liberation from the self.” And secondly, he talked about how “Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living beings and all of nature.” Amen! It sounded like something right out of our Buddhism lecture. It also made me think of how interesting it was the he referred to the illusion of consciousness as a prison and suggested we needed to be free of it. Why would we need to be free of our illusory consciousness? It is what we live through every day and often don’t know how to live any other way. His answer is to embrace everything and anything with compassion. How simple. Get over yourself, your drama, your problems, your desire, your life and simply love and be loved. It sounds pretty Utopian, I suppose, and reminds me of the question “Can’t we all just get along?” But it is so necessary. Really, just have an open mind and don’t judge others – accept them, help them, love them and appreciate it all.
Henry David Thoreau
Thoreau rocks. When we are unhurried and wise, we perceive that only great and worthy things have any permanent and absolute existence. Isn’t that so true? If you ever get the chance to simply go for a walk, watch a sunset, cook an amazing meal that takes all day (or any number of time-consuming and yet simply things) you’d understand exactly what Thoreau is saying. The fact that I was annoyed with my homework doesn’t matter – the fact that I am able to do and understand it is what matters. The fact that we have to rush to our next class doesn’t matter – the fact that we are mobile and willing matters and we should never forget that. Aches and pains don’t faze me – I’m grateful to be alive.
Children, who play life, discern its true law and relations more than men, who fail to live it worthily, but who think they are wiser by experience, that is, by failure. I thought about that quote for a long time and tried to decipher what I really was able to take from it. Basically, just because you are older doesn’t mean you are wiser and because you have experience doesn’t mean you can feel and appreciate life. Children see the world so much more simply and are able to truly live because they aren’t bogged down by daily burdens and “experience.” If we can lift the bias of life we have that comes with experience from our minds then we, too, can live freely.
God himself culminates in the present moment. Live life in the moment, for it is always the best!
Thoreau really is spreading simple messages: slow down and appreciate the greatest things in life. Free your mind so that you can internalize the appreciation and always live in the moment so life is always at its best. Sounds good to me.
Children, who play life, discern its true law and relations more than men, who fail to live it worthily, but who think they are wiser by experience, that is, by failure. I thought about that quote for a long time and tried to decipher what I really was able to take from it. Basically, just because you are older doesn’t mean you are wiser and because you have experience doesn’t mean you can feel and appreciate life. Children see the world so much more simply and are able to truly live because they aren’t bogged down by daily burdens and “experience.” If we can lift the bias of life we have that comes with experience from our minds then we, too, can live freely.
God himself culminates in the present moment. Live life in the moment, for it is always the best!
Thoreau really is spreading simple messages: slow down and appreciate the greatest things in life. Free your mind so that you can internalize the appreciation and always live in the moment so life is always at its best. Sounds good to me.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Heraclitus
The author prefaces this passage with “Heraclitus seems like a Zen Master in a toga.” I literally laughed out loud at that one. For some reason I pictured a young guy in a toga saying, “Dude, Heraclitus is totally like a Zen Master in a toga.” Aside from how ridiculous that sounded (I know), I have to say I think it is completely true.
Heraclitus’ statements seem so stupidly simple, but it is all something we take for granted. “The sun is new every day.” Well, duh. But how often, really, do we take in a beautiful sunrise and feel the sense of appreciation well up within ourselves? Probably never for most of us. Not only does the sun rise, but it provides the light the world needs to survive, it warms our skin, improves our mood and is a constant we can’t take for granted.
“It is in change that things find rest.” I couldn’t agree more. From my personal experience, I’ve found this concept to be increasingly true. I’ve moved quite a few times, made new friends, my relationships within my family have changed, etc. Through all of it I’ve found myself, and in doing so, I feel at peace and at home no matter what changes are going on around me. If people can accept that the only thing constant is change, then it will be no surprise – or inconvenience – when it happens. It will simply be life and you live through it. That is one of the most important things I’ve learned in my life and has made coping with some very stressful situations much easier.
I think Heraclitus has nailed it on the head.
Heraclitus’ statements seem so stupidly simple, but it is all something we take for granted. “The sun is new every day.” Well, duh. But how often, really, do we take in a beautiful sunrise and feel the sense of appreciation well up within ourselves? Probably never for most of us. Not only does the sun rise, but it provides the light the world needs to survive, it warms our skin, improves our mood and is a constant we can’t take for granted.
“It is in change that things find rest.” I couldn’t agree more. From my personal experience, I’ve found this concept to be increasingly true. I’ve moved quite a few times, made new friends, my relationships within my family have changed, etc. Through all of it I’ve found myself, and in doing so, I feel at peace and at home no matter what changes are going on around me. If people can accept that the only thing constant is change, then it will be no surprise – or inconvenience – when it happens. It will simply be life and you live through it. That is one of the most important things I’ve learned in my life and has made coping with some very stressful situations much easier.
I think Heraclitus has nailed it on the head.
Shoutout to Maximus
In the preface for this passage the author writes, “May his lovely tolerance be an example for us all.” That is so true! It sets a beautiful example of how people could see the world. And, it doesn’t necessarily pertain to only people of Western religions, either.
Maximus said “But we, being unable to apprehend his essence, use the help of sounds and names and pictures … beaten gold and … of plants and rivers.” I’ve heard people say “God made the mountains” or “God is in the mountains” but for some reason it offers up a completely different perspective to think of it as Maximus puts it. Instead of thinking of a man sitting somewhere in heaven making things, it gives a better visual of an essence that permeates all things. It is easier to wrap my mind around that for some reason, which is really nice.
Maximus also goes on to say “Let men know what is divine. Let them know. That is all.” That struck me like a lightening bolt. In my experience, there are far too many people who not only try to let you know what is divine, but they often go to invasive lengths to try to convince you. They do not simply let you know, let you simmer on it and make your own decision about it – instead, they go a little too far and it borders forceful. When that happens, and someone feels a belief forced upon them, they often become close-minded as a personal defense. However, if they were merely informed, their minds would remain open and the message would truly get across. “Only let them know, let them love, let them remember.”
Maximus said “But we, being unable to apprehend his essence, use the help of sounds and names and pictures … beaten gold and … of plants and rivers.” I’ve heard people say “God made the mountains” or “God is in the mountains” but for some reason it offers up a completely different perspective to think of it as Maximus puts it. Instead of thinking of a man sitting somewhere in heaven making things, it gives a better visual of an essence that permeates all things. It is easier to wrap my mind around that for some reason, which is really nice.
Maximus also goes on to say “Let men know what is divine. Let them know. That is all.” That struck me like a lightening bolt. In my experience, there are far too many people who not only try to let you know what is divine, but they often go to invasive lengths to try to convince you. They do not simply let you know, let you simmer on it and make your own decision about it – instead, they go a little too far and it borders forceful. When that happens, and someone feels a belief forced upon them, they often become close-minded as a personal defense. However, if they were merely informed, their minds would remain open and the message would truly get across. “Only let them know, let them love, let them remember.”
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Rumi
First of all, I love Rumi. I received a book of Rumi’s quotations as a gift and I immediately fell in love with it. It has continually been inspirational and it never lets me down.
This particular passage was just as amazing as the others I’ve read of his. The first thing that cracked me up was the embryo conversation. That was just hilarious! As funny as it was, though, it brought up a really good point. “I only know what I’ve experienced. You must be hallucinated.” I’m taking a philosophy class and we’ve talked about this concept for a while now. All of us only know what we experience for ourselves and we will never know what anyone else experiences. We can describe what we feel, think, see, hear, but it will never be the same as experiencing it ourselves.
Another passage that I loved was passage about the person knocking at the Friend’s door. I literally laughed out loud. “There is no place for raw meat at this table.” What does that even mean? It reminded me of meat-wad from Aqua Teen Hunger Force. (Does anyone know what I’m talking about?) On a serious note, though, it was explained with “Nothing but the fire of separation can change hypocrisy and ego.” So, the man, completely cooked (not baked), returned to the Friend and was accepted. He was accepted as “my Self” and it told us that when we can pass through the fire of separation and let go of material things and unnecessary emotions we can be one with the Friend. And it doesn’t matter if the Friend is God or enlightenment, it is still the same!
This particular passage was just as amazing as the others I’ve read of his. The first thing that cracked me up was the embryo conversation. That was just hilarious! As funny as it was, though, it brought up a really good point. “I only know what I’ve experienced. You must be hallucinated.” I’m taking a philosophy class and we’ve talked about this concept for a while now. All of us only know what we experience for ourselves and we will never know what anyone else experiences. We can describe what we feel, think, see, hear, but it will never be the same as experiencing it ourselves.
Another passage that I loved was passage about the person knocking at the Friend’s door. I literally laughed out loud. “There is no place for raw meat at this table.” What does that even mean? It reminded me of meat-wad from Aqua Teen Hunger Force. (Does anyone know what I’m talking about?) On a serious note, though, it was explained with “Nothing but the fire of separation can change hypocrisy and ego.” So, the man, completely cooked (not baked), returned to the Friend and was accepted. He was accepted as “my Self” and it told us that when we can pass through the fire of separation and let go of material things and unnecessary emotions we can be one with the Friend. And it doesn’t matter if the Friend is God or enlightenment, it is still the same!
Abu Hamid Al-Ghazali
What a beautiful piece of writing! The entire piece was very beautifully written and insightful, but the first paragraph really stood out to me. Not only does it start off by talking about beauty, which is always a pleasant beginning, but it looks at it on a deeper level. “All beauty is loved by those who are able to perceive beauty, for the perception of beauty is a delight in itself.” What a simple observation. People love to look at pleasant things and are drawn to beauty, but don’t think about why they love it. It is, indeed, the perception which is the joy itself. It makes me happy to see a beautiful flower arrangement or the brilliant teal my fiancé’s eyes turn when the sun hits them. (Googly, sorry.) But it is nice to lay my eyes upon it all.
Aside from the mushiness, though, I think it makes a really valid point. If you do not choose to see beauty around you, you will not see it. If you can see beauty around you – even if there is none – you will find joy in it. It says a lot about people’s outlooks on life. I know people who are constantly negative and bring people down around them for no reason. And, when surrounded by something beautiful or down-right awesome they fail to see it. They can’t bring themselves to find pleasure in it.
The writing conveyed the message that if you find beauty in all things, and it is natural to love it, then you can love the All-Beautiful, which is God. But no matter way you look at it – involving God or not – isn’t a much better way of life to find the beauty in things anyway? If you can’t see the good and beauty in things and appreciate them, where does it get you? Nowhere. But if you can see the greatness in things, where does it get you? Everywhere. Why is that? Because by seeing the greatness in all things, you appreciate life and nothing can bring you down.
Aside from the mushiness, though, I think it makes a really valid point. If you do not choose to see beauty around you, you will not see it. If you can see beauty around you – even if there is none – you will find joy in it. It says a lot about people’s outlooks on life. I know people who are constantly negative and bring people down around them for no reason. And, when surrounded by something beautiful or down-right awesome they fail to see it. They can’t bring themselves to find pleasure in it.
The writing conveyed the message that if you find beauty in all things, and it is natural to love it, then you can love the All-Beautiful, which is God. But no matter way you look at it – involving God or not – isn’t a much better way of life to find the beauty in things anyway? If you can’t see the good and beauty in things and appreciate them, where does it get you? Nowhere. But if you can see the greatness in things, where does it get you? Everywhere. Why is that? Because by seeing the greatness in all things, you appreciate life and nothing can bring you down.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Dame Julian of Norwich
I’ll be honest – I think I am completely missing the point of this reading. Is Julian saying there is no sin because there are no accidents and God made it that way? If people make mistakes, but it is because God wanted it to be so, is it really a sin? Or just part of the plan? Again, I’d genuine appreciate someone taking the time to straighten that out for me since I don’t know much about Christianity on a detailed level.
One quote that I found relatively confusing was “For man beholds some deeds as well done and some deeds as evil, but our lord beholds them not so, for as all that exists in nature is of God’s making, so all that is done is rightly of God’s doing.” Now, it isn’t saying that all that is done rightly is of God’s doing, it says everything that is done is rightly of God’s doing. So where does evil and Satan’s temptations come in? I am truly not meaning to offend anyone, but I am sincerely wondering about it all. My understanding is that God is just and right (even though you are supposed to love thy enemy and somehow kill them off at the same time) so everything He made is right. That being said, people would be right no matter what, correct? And if nothing is an accident, it can’t really be a sin, right?
Julian also goes on to say, “for there is no doer but he.” Again, is she saying there is no evil or Satan to tempt people? Or, since God also made Satan, would he not also be right and good no matter what he did? Why would he be evil if that is the case? Or, is it that God made Satan to be evil to tempt people and see if people made the “right” choice? If that is the answer, it just leads me to believe that God is manipulative and not into sharing and loving like we’re led to believe.
If there is someone willing to sit down and discuss this with me sometime, I’d be really grateful. Truly.
One quote that I found relatively confusing was “For man beholds some deeds as well done and some deeds as evil, but our lord beholds them not so, for as all that exists in nature is of God’s making, so all that is done is rightly of God’s doing.” Now, it isn’t saying that all that is done rightly is of God’s doing, it says everything that is done is rightly of God’s doing. So where does evil and Satan’s temptations come in? I am truly not meaning to offend anyone, but I am sincerely wondering about it all. My understanding is that God is just and right (even though you are supposed to love thy enemy and somehow kill them off at the same time) so everything He made is right. That being said, people would be right no matter what, correct? And if nothing is an accident, it can’t really be a sin, right?
Julian also goes on to say, “for there is no doer but he.” Again, is she saying there is no evil or Satan to tempt people? Or, since God also made Satan, would he not also be right and good no matter what he did? Why would he be evil if that is the case? Or, is it that God made Satan to be evil to tempt people and see if people made the “right” choice? If that is the answer, it just leads me to believe that God is manipulative and not into sharing and loving like we’re led to believe.
If there is someone willing to sit down and discuss this with me sometime, I’d be really grateful. Truly.
The Cloud of Unknowing
This passage reminded me so much of Hui-Hai’s passage about mediation. Both really describe how to go about clearing your mind for your sole purpose – whether it be for enlightenment or for the love of God. They really discuss how hard it is to do at first – pray or meditate – and how you have to simply work through it until you reach the other side of things. And, when you do get there, how it will open your mind in ways unimaginable.
The third paragraph starts off, “Do not stop, therefore, but keep laboring in it till you feel delight. For when you first begin it, you find just a darkness and, as it were, a cloud of unknowing …” and that is exactly what it is like to begin the process of seeing through oneself. The passage goes on to say, “so you must put a cloud of forgetting beneath you …” and that sounds quite odd. However, if you think about it (no pun intended) you have to clear your mind of everything – forget everything – in order to make way for a higher power.
The concept doing everything for God and living life for God never made much sense to me, I have to admit. It all seems very manipulative and jealousy-driven and I always thought that if God were truly in you and guiding you, you should be able to look within yourself to find the truth, not have to worship and appease the very God who is supposedly within you. I believe in a God, but it is more of a universal power I suppose rather than the traditional view of the Christian God. And to be honest, I don’t really know exactly what I believe in, so I realize I really have no ground to say anything. However, after reading the Buddhist passages and Hindu passages – which I seem to be able to internalize a little more – I realized both eastern religion and western religion are saying the same thing in essence: clearing your mind for whatever higher power you believe in and not dwelling on materialism is what makes you more enlightened/closer to God. Once I saw it in that light it was easier for me to see past the inhibitions I had and see what the true message of the passage was. That is why this class rocks!
The third paragraph starts off, “Do not stop, therefore, but keep laboring in it till you feel delight. For when you first begin it, you find just a darkness and, as it were, a cloud of unknowing …” and that is exactly what it is like to begin the process of seeing through oneself. The passage goes on to say, “so you must put a cloud of forgetting beneath you …” and that sounds quite odd. However, if you think about it (no pun intended) you have to clear your mind of everything – forget everything – in order to make way for a higher power.
The concept doing everything for God and living life for God never made much sense to me, I have to admit. It all seems very manipulative and jealousy-driven and I always thought that if God were truly in you and guiding you, you should be able to look within yourself to find the truth, not have to worship and appease the very God who is supposedly within you. I believe in a God, but it is more of a universal power I suppose rather than the traditional view of the Christian God. And to be honest, I don’t really know exactly what I believe in, so I realize I really have no ground to say anything. However, after reading the Buddhist passages and Hindu passages – which I seem to be able to internalize a little more – I realized both eastern religion and western religion are saying the same thing in essence: clearing your mind for whatever higher power you believe in and not dwelling on materialism is what makes you more enlightened/closer to God. Once I saw it in that light it was easier for me to see past the inhibitions I had and see what the true message of the passage was. That is why this class rocks!
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Hui-Hai
I thought Hui-Hai’s description of clearing one’s mind was just perfect. He really elaborates on just how to clear your mind of thoughts for mediation to reach that state of being truly unattached. “Trying to empty your minds, straining to attain enlightenment, blabbering about your understanding … all this is a waste of energy.” That seems so counterproductive seeing as how you’re told to focus on emptying your mind, but it is so true. One of the themes found in a lot of the passages we’ve read so far talk about how trying is nearly the worst thing you can do when it comes to reaching a level of enlightenment and a sense of being unattached. However, we are supposed to “look into your own mind; then the marvelous reality will manifest itself at all times.” How is it that we’re supposed to not try so hard, but try at the same time? I think it is about not trying too hard, or trying so hard you lose focus of what it is you’re actually trying to do.
Another point within the first quote I thought was interesting was about how talking about your understanding is a waste of time. People often talk about what they know to prove to others they actually know something when, really, they don’t know as much as they think. Sounds confusing, but it happens all the time. People are constantly overcompensating for what they know, can or cannot do. In doing that, they lose the real reward that comes from simply knowing or simply having an ability to do something well. It reminds me of something my dad told my little sister and I when my sister and I were showing off. We were really young and my sister was only following my lead, but when we were done skipping around the house, my dad said something to the effect of “If you know you’re good, know it and be good. Don’t go around talking about how good you are and forget to be good.” I don’t know why, but that really stuck with me and I think it is a good thing to remember!
Another point within the first quote I thought was interesting was about how talking about your understanding is a waste of time. People often talk about what they know to prove to others they actually know something when, really, they don’t know as much as they think. Sounds confusing, but it happens all the time. People are constantly overcompensating for what they know, can or cannot do. In doing that, they lose the real reward that comes from simply knowing or simply having an ability to do something well. It reminds me of something my dad told my little sister and I when my sister and I were showing off. We were really young and my sister was only following my lead, but when we were done skipping around the house, my dad said something to the effect of “If you know you’re good, know it and be good. Don’t go around talking about how good you are and forget to be good.” I don’t know why, but that really stuck with me and I think it is a good thing to remember!
Tzu-Ssu
I thought Tzu-ssu was a really awesome passage, although at this point it seems unoriginal. That may sound offensive or odd, but so many spiritual leaders seem to say the same thing – look inside yourself for the answers you seek. As repetitive as this passage may have seemed to me, there were still quotes that popped out at me. The first one was “the mature person pays attention to what is happening in his innermost self.” How many times have we seen this theme so far? Whether it is the concept of God that is within us or the unseen truth, there is undeniably something within us that we can turn to for inspiration and happiness. In this case it is the Tao and “if it is not inside you, it is not the Tao.”
Another quote that jumped out at me was the last part of the passage that starts out with “The mature person accepts his situation and doesn’t desire anything outside it.” If you find yourself in a particular situation, don’t worry about if it is good or bad, just go with the flow and be the master of yourself. Know yourself well enough to know how to act and react to new life experiences without stressing about the shoulda-coulda-woulda. I think it really speaks to the fact that we should take accountability for ourselves, appreciate what we have and don’t worry about what we do not have. Life is much less stressful when you can learn to roll with the punches and enjoy the moment versus always hoping and wishing for the future. It is easy to always blame someone else for your misfortune, or wish that life would’ve been different, but if you never take a look at what you have right in front of you as well as inside of yourself, you’ll never be able to appreciate anything.
Another quote that jumped out at me was the last part of the passage that starts out with “The mature person accepts his situation and doesn’t desire anything outside it.” If you find yourself in a particular situation, don’t worry about if it is good or bad, just go with the flow and be the master of yourself. Know yourself well enough to know how to act and react to new life experiences without stressing about the shoulda-coulda-woulda. I think it really speaks to the fact that we should take accountability for ourselves, appreciate what we have and don’t worry about what we do not have. Life is much less stressful when you can learn to roll with the punches and enjoy the moment versus always hoping and wishing for the future. It is easy to always blame someone else for your misfortune, or wish that life would’ve been different, but if you never take a look at what you have right in front of you as well as inside of yourself, you’ll never be able to appreciate anything.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Dogen
I absolutely loved The Practice of Mediation. I used to work for a company that was based around yoga and I had the opportunity to try many types of yoga and meditation techniques. I was quite skeptical when I joined the company because I’d never done either yoga or mediation before and I didn’t think I had the mental power to free my mind. Nor did I want to turn into a hippy, which is what I figured all modern-day yogis were. Boy, was I wrong! I learned to relax my body and clear my mind so it was free enough to really take in life instead of rushing through it. And, I did it all without becoming a hippy!
“Meditation is not a way to enlightenment, nor is it a method of achieving anything at all.” That is not true! I don’t think so, anyway. Meditation clears your mind over time of the busy-body everyday worries to make way for new and insightful thoughts. It leaves you feeling refreshed and in doing so it gives you a little bit of a new outlook on life. What you achieve is a feeling of the world being lifted off your shoulders and a deeper appreciation for what you have (health, patience, time). I always thought of it as emptying a filing cabinet at the end of the year. I know that is weird, but let me explain. You go into mediation worrying, thinking and stressing about various things. When you reach the state of nothingness your brain goes through the file cabinet of your day and shreds all of the unnecessary stuff and leaves plenty of room for things that really take priority. When you “come to” and pull yourself into thinking again, “you yourself are the mirror reflecting the solution of your problems.” I am more focused and much less overwhelmed and just move forward instead of spinning my wheels. I can more clearly see what needs to be done, what I can and cannot do, and that what I cannot do I shouldn’t worry about. It rocks!
“Meditation is not a way to enlightenment, nor is it a method of achieving anything at all.” That is not true! I don’t think so, anyway. Meditation clears your mind over time of the busy-body everyday worries to make way for new and insightful thoughts. It leaves you feeling refreshed and in doing so it gives you a little bit of a new outlook on life. What you achieve is a feeling of the world being lifted off your shoulders and a deeper appreciation for what you have (health, patience, time). I always thought of it as emptying a filing cabinet at the end of the year. I know that is weird, but let me explain. You go into mediation worrying, thinking and stressing about various things. When you reach the state of nothingness your brain goes through the file cabinet of your day and shreds all of the unnecessary stuff and leaves plenty of room for things that really take priority. When you “come to” and pull yourself into thinking again, “you yourself are the mirror reflecting the solution of your problems.” I am more focused and much less overwhelmed and just move forward instead of spinning my wheels. I can more clearly see what needs to be done, what I can and cannot do, and that what I cannot do I shouldn’t worry about. It rocks!
Yay, Buddha!
"It is proper to doubt." Indeed it is! I think it is great to question life - not for the sake of arguing or accusation, but to fully understand the reality around us. If we don't understand it, how can we truly appreciate it? Some people follow different things simply because it is tradition or they’ve been told to do so and rarely question why. However, there are some people who ask questions about why they are following something and find the answer reinforces their established beliefs and that is wonderful. Sometimes it knocks them out of their boots and that can be equally as wonderful. It is great to learn knew things, but it can be terrifying if you’re not ready for the answers. Since life always sends us challenges and seemingly random things, we should learn to expect it and appreciate it instead of letting it pass us by.
And speaking of appreciating, I loved the quote "Be a lamp to yourself. Be your own confidence." This stood out to me because whether I want to admit it or not I'm guilty of following someone else's path or depending on others for confidence. I think a lot of people do to a degree and some see it more than others. It is easy to get stuck doing things your peers are doing or things your parents want you to do because it is easier to go with the flow sometimes than to think for yourself and make your own decisions. I tried two majors to look productive and to please my mom before I found my current major, which I love and put a lot of thought and effort into before choosing. I've said certain things and acted certain ways to fit in, even if I felt it was wrong. Luckily, it all just got too bothersome to keep up with and I've been able to find myself and follow my own path. It has been more rewarding and liberating than anything else I've ever done.
And speaking of appreciating, I loved the quote "Be a lamp to yourself. Be your own confidence." This stood out to me because whether I want to admit it or not I'm guilty of following someone else's path or depending on others for confidence. I think a lot of people do to a degree and some see it more than others. It is easy to get stuck doing things your peers are doing or things your parents want you to do because it is easier to go with the flow sometimes than to think for yourself and make your own decisions. I tried two majors to look productive and to please my mom before I found my current major, which I love and put a lot of thought and effort into before choosing. I've said certain things and acted certain ways to fit in, even if I felt it was wrong. Luckily, it all just got too bothersome to keep up with and I've been able to find myself and follow my own path. It has been more rewarding and liberating than anything else I've ever done.
Monday, February 2, 2009
The Bible
First of all, I am not well versed in the Christian teachings and I do not mean to offend anyone. However, I am confused by some of the tone and reasoning behind some of the Biblical excerpts I read.
In the passage that began “You shall love the Unnamable with all your heart and with all your mind and with all your strength …” my initial feeling was that the statement seemed a little, well, bossy. I’m not quite sure how else to put it, but it really seems dominating. Maybe it is meant in a casual way as if we will all coincidentally come to love God on our own terms for valid reasons, or maybe it is a demand by a jealous god. The rest of the passage goes on to say when and where you must think about and love the Unnamable, and I feel like I may be missing a loving, underlying point. I fail to see how demanding love is actually loving.
Another quote I had a hard time wrapping my brain around was “I form light and create darkness; I make peace and create evil.” I would love for someone to post an explanation of this here on my blog so I can get another perspective on it in all seriousness. I don’t understand why God would create darkness and evil if he is everything that is good? And for that matter, is it wrong for me to think it is manipulative to create people for pleasure, demand they love you and do good, tempt them with evil, see which way they go, and when they do good there is supposedly a great reward for them? What exactly is it that happens if one were to do something bad? I have a hard time understanding that and maybe I just completely made a fool of myself talking out of my a**, but I would truly love for someone to give me their take on the subject or correct me on my misconceptions! J
In the passage that began “You shall love the Unnamable with all your heart and with all your mind and with all your strength …” my initial feeling was that the statement seemed a little, well, bossy. I’m not quite sure how else to put it, but it really seems dominating. Maybe it is meant in a casual way as if we will all coincidentally come to love God on our own terms for valid reasons, or maybe it is a demand by a jealous god. The rest of the passage goes on to say when and where you must think about and love the Unnamable, and I feel like I may be missing a loving, underlying point. I fail to see how demanding love is actually loving.
Another quote I had a hard time wrapping my brain around was “I form light and create darkness; I make peace and create evil.” I would love for someone to post an explanation of this here on my blog so I can get another perspective on it in all seriousness. I don’t understand why God would create darkness and evil if he is everything that is good? And for that matter, is it wrong for me to think it is manipulative to create people for pleasure, demand they love you and do good, tempt them with evil, see which way they go, and when they do good there is supposedly a great reward for them? What exactly is it that happens if one were to do something bad? I have a hard time understanding that and maybe I just completely made a fool of myself talking out of my a**, but I would truly love for someone to give me their take on the subject or correct me on my misconceptions! J
Shmelke of Nikolsburg
I have to admit that when I read Rabbi Shmelke’s conversation I had my eyes opened a little bit wider than usual. I’ve always thought that the matter of dealing with “the wicked” or people who do wrong has been an interesting topic. There are so many diverse opinions on the matter and it is hard to say which one is right. And it isn’t often that I think about it myself, either. I don’t often come face-to-face with wickedness or am forced to have an opinion of what I think should be done in that sort of situation. However, after reading Shmelke’s passage it is much easier to see a clear way of emotionally dealing with wickedness.
Shmelke’s last statement says that the our souls came out of the original soul and because of that we should treat each other with the same respect in which we would treat that original soul. How simple and yet profound. It is easy to hear the words “we are one” or “God is in us” and the like, but to truly apply it to the very way we treat each other – not just ourselves – was, I have to say, a new perspective for me. I’ve had a bumpy religious ride and haven’t fully embraced one religion over another and in doing so I’ve inadvertently blocked out a lot of amazing wisdom. Many religions have the mantra of “we are God” and “God is in you” but it never meant much to me because I never thought too much about it. God is in me, but I’m not sure I even believed in God, so what about it? But for whatever reason, Shmelke’s words got to me and connected the saying to someone other than myself, which is usually how I take God to be … within myself. Perhaps I just never thought about it so it never occurred to me that, duh, if it is in me it must be in you or anyone else. And who is to say I have to believe in any specific God to understand the concept that if we are all part of the same thing – no matter what that is – we should treat each other the way we’d treat that mysterious thing for what it is instead of being blinded by people’s superficial appearances. Obviously it was naive to think, but I’m glad I was able to find something to help me see more clearly.
Shmelke’s last statement says that the our souls came out of the original soul and because of that we should treat each other with the same respect in which we would treat that original soul. How simple and yet profound. It is easy to hear the words “we are one” or “God is in us” and the like, but to truly apply it to the very way we treat each other – not just ourselves – was, I have to say, a new perspective for me. I’ve had a bumpy religious ride and haven’t fully embraced one religion over another and in doing so I’ve inadvertently blocked out a lot of amazing wisdom. Many religions have the mantra of “we are God” and “God is in you” but it never meant much to me because I never thought too much about it. God is in me, but I’m not sure I even believed in God, so what about it? But for whatever reason, Shmelke’s words got to me and connected the saying to someone other than myself, which is usually how I take God to be … within myself. Perhaps I just never thought about it so it never occurred to me that, duh, if it is in me it must be in you or anyone else. And who is to say I have to believe in any specific God to understand the concept that if we are all part of the same thing – no matter what that is – we should treat each other the way we’d treat that mysterious thing for what it is instead of being blinded by people’s superficial appearances. Obviously it was naive to think, but I’m glad I was able to find something to help me see more clearly.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Ramana Maharshi and Me
It is no lie that to see the essence of love, you simply have to look into Ramana Maharshi’s eyes. Before I read the passage I looked up him photograph and instantly smiled at how happy and serene he looks. He truly looks like he is at peace with himself and the world around him.
I’ve said before that I am not profoundly religious, but I felt so comforted and relieved by the very first blurb: “Nobody doubts that he exists, though they may doubt the existence of God. If he finds out the truths about himself and discovers his own source, this is all that is required.” I believe through and through that finding the truth within yourself about oneself is one of the best things you can do in life. Why? Because if you cannot understand and respect yourself, how is it possible for you to truly understand and respect anyone else? For some, finding the truth means searching for years and asking questions of oneself and others, and for others it means simply looking. When people live life not even thinking to look at who they are they are missing out on so many wonderful challenges and deep rewards.
When Maharshi said, “everyone loves himself best. Love is caused by joy. Therefore, joy must lie inside oneself” it just reinforced the mantra “love yourself before you can love others.” Over and over again people tend to blame others for their own sadness or misfortune. I’m guilty of this as well – we all are. Sometimes it just comes out and we shallowly try to find something to blame to make us feel better. However, in taking responsibility for yourself and being accountable for not only our actions but our feelings as well there is much more comfort in the end. Is it more rewarding to take credit for something someone else did, or to know you did an amazing job with something and be able to say it is yours? When it comes down to it, I completely agree we are the only ones who can make ourselves happy!
I’ve said before that I am not profoundly religious, but I felt so comforted and relieved by the very first blurb: “Nobody doubts that he exists, though they may doubt the existence of God. If he finds out the truths about himself and discovers his own source, this is all that is required.” I believe through and through that finding the truth within yourself about oneself is one of the best things you can do in life. Why? Because if you cannot understand and respect yourself, how is it possible for you to truly understand and respect anyone else? For some, finding the truth means searching for years and asking questions of oneself and others, and for others it means simply looking. When people live life not even thinking to look at who they are they are missing out on so many wonderful challenges and deep rewards.
When Maharshi said, “everyone loves himself best. Love is caused by joy. Therefore, joy must lie inside oneself” it just reinforced the mantra “love yourself before you can love others.” Over and over again people tend to blame others for their own sadness or misfortune. I’m guilty of this as well – we all are. Sometimes it just comes out and we shallowly try to find something to blame to make us feel better. However, in taking responsibility for yourself and being accountable for not only our actions but our feelings as well there is much more comfort in the end. Is it more rewarding to take credit for something someone else did, or to know you did an amazing job with something and be able to say it is yours? When it comes down to it, I completely agree we are the only ones who can make ourselves happy!
Tu-Shun
So much of Tu-Shun’s passage really struck a chord with me as I read it. I hadn’t heard of the Net of Indra prior to reading this, but I feel as thought it has seemed to true to me my whole life. What a beautiful way to think of the universe!
The imagery of the Net of Indra is so wonderful because it simply shows that we are all the same and yet slightly different. It sounds so contradictory, but when you think about it, I think it just means that we are all human beings. No matter how we differ in appearance, values, ideals, we are still human and we can’t escape that. I think that is best represented through the quote “this jewel can show the reflections of all the jewels at once.”
This jumped out at me because I feel as though people are definitely reflections of each other for various reasons. In interacting with one another we act and react and reflect each other’s views, prejudices, fears and thoughts. We are shaped by our experiences and within those experiences are thousands people who – despite being the same or different as us – have made impressions on who we are. With each impression our view changes subtly and they leave a little of themselves within us.
Another quote that caught my attention was about how “such a subtly teaching as this is hard to hear even in immeasurable eons; only those with persistence and wisdom can hear of the matrix of the issue of thusness.” Wow. I think a saying like that should be posted in classrooms or something because it is really food for thought. It was Socrates who said, “an unexamined life is not worth living” and I think both sayings are along the same lines. If you live your life ignorant and unaware of the world around you, you will never be truly wise and able to reflect not only upon yourself but life in general.
The imagery of the Net of Indra is so wonderful because it simply shows that we are all the same and yet slightly different. It sounds so contradictory, but when you think about it, I think it just means that we are all human beings. No matter how we differ in appearance, values, ideals, we are still human and we can’t escape that. I think that is best represented through the quote “this jewel can show the reflections of all the jewels at once.”
This jumped out at me because I feel as though people are definitely reflections of each other for various reasons. In interacting with one another we act and react and reflect each other’s views, prejudices, fears and thoughts. We are shaped by our experiences and within those experiences are thousands people who – despite being the same or different as us – have made impressions on who we are. With each impression our view changes subtly and they leave a little of themselves within us.
Another quote that caught my attention was about how “such a subtly teaching as this is hard to hear even in immeasurable eons; only those with persistence and wisdom can hear of the matrix of the issue of thusness.” Wow. I think a saying like that should be posted in classrooms or something because it is really food for thought. It was Socrates who said, “an unexamined life is not worth living” and I think both sayings are along the same lines. If you live your life ignorant and unaware of the world around you, you will never be truly wise and able to reflect not only upon yourself but life in general.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Chief Seattle tells it like it is.
I loved the tone of the speech to Governor Stevens. Not only was it was fair and grateful and first, it turned a bit bitter and proud midway through. If it were played out in a movie I feel as though it would’ve been such an impact and inspired resentment towards the White Man perfectly.
When the Chief says how great it is that the White Chief has offered them land and protection it is hard to tell if he is truly grateful or downright sarcastic. At first you almost think he is overly thankful and has forgotten where his culture had been. Then he has a change of heart – or maybe the truth simply comes through – and he says “Your God loves your people and hates mine.” Touché. How can the awesome greatness of God tend to and protect them if he hates them? He goes on to say “Your God is prejudiced.” Amen to that.
Although I am in a definite learning process when it comes to religion in general, I feel like God comes off prejudiced quite a bit. Was it Adam or Eve that is in the wrong? Eve, therefore all women are wrong. I know not everyone believes that or teaches that, but it seems to be an underlying current among Christian religions. However, I can’t deny that a ton of other religions look down upon women as well. Also, when it comes to religions themselves there is always a hierarchy of who is holier than whom and there are opinions and consequences for whoever is on the lowest part of the totem pole. Are you baptized? If not, you’re not welcome here. Or, even something as general as: Are you our religion? Oh, no? Sucks for you – don’t come in. There is such a double standard based around the “Everyone is equal in the eyes of the Lord” thing and I just don’t quite understand it. I could be completely off my rocker about this, but if we’re all equal no matter who or what we are, why aren’t we all welcome and embraced? And that being said, why aren’t we all just one happy religion? (Cheesy, but hey.)
Is there an answer to that? Maybe not. But guess what? We are human and too many people do the judging that supposedly only God can do far too often.
When the Chief says how great it is that the White Chief has offered them land and protection it is hard to tell if he is truly grateful or downright sarcastic. At first you almost think he is overly thankful and has forgotten where his culture had been. Then he has a change of heart – or maybe the truth simply comes through – and he says “Your God loves your people and hates mine.” Touché. How can the awesome greatness of God tend to and protect them if he hates them? He goes on to say “Your God is prejudiced.” Amen to that.
Although I am in a definite learning process when it comes to religion in general, I feel like God comes off prejudiced quite a bit. Was it Adam or Eve that is in the wrong? Eve, therefore all women are wrong. I know not everyone believes that or teaches that, but it seems to be an underlying current among Christian religions. However, I can’t deny that a ton of other religions look down upon women as well. Also, when it comes to religions themselves there is always a hierarchy of who is holier than whom and there are opinions and consequences for whoever is on the lowest part of the totem pole. Are you baptized? If not, you’re not welcome here. Or, even something as general as: Are you our religion? Oh, no? Sucks for you – don’t come in. There is such a double standard based around the “Everyone is equal in the eyes of the Lord” thing and I just don’t quite understand it. I could be completely off my rocker about this, but if we’re all equal no matter who or what we are, why aren’t we all welcome and embraced? And that being said, why aren’t we all just one happy religion? (Cheesy, but hey.)
Is there an answer to that? Maybe not. But guess what? We are human and too many people do the judging that supposedly only God can do far too often.
Sa-Go-Ye-Wat-Ha is My Homeboy
As I read Sa-Go-Ye-Wat-Ha’s speech to the missionary I was really impressed. Not only did he make quite a few amazingly valid points about how similar his religion was to that of the missionary, but he was fair and kind. Today people often forget the similarities amongst religions and fail to see through their assumptions, and this passage was a great reminder of that.
One of the questions Sa-Go-Ye-Wat-Ha asked the missionary that really struck me was when he asked, “If there is only one religion, why do you white people differ so much about it?” So many Europeans who came to this country in search of religious freedom all claimed to be the one true religion based on the Bible so no wonder it was confusing to the Native Americans who inhabited the land first. Even still, so many Christian faiths claim to be more truthful than the next, but all have a very similar basis of thought. To someone like me, who is relatively uninformed on the various Christian religions, this is such an obvious question and yet it is never asked.
Another thing that made an impression on me was the level of tolerance expressed by Sa-Go-Ye-Wat-Ha. He said that the Great Spirit has made them all, yet made them differently, so why not embrace the differences and accept it? Basically, why not agree to disagree but hold no hate or resentment for it? What a novel idea! This idea seems so simple and really, well, logical and yet it is so difficult for people to do.
I understand the desire or need to share what you know to be the truth with others - it always feels good when you think you're helping someone out - but if you have to force them to “see the truth” is it really sharing? Is it really bettering them or is it hurting them and making you the tyrant? The latter is just bad all around and it happens much too often, in history and today.
If more people could learn to embrace tolerance and probe their own beliefs (not to necessarily discourage them, but to also make their conviction stronger) I think there would be much less conflict!
One of the questions Sa-Go-Ye-Wat-Ha asked the missionary that really struck me was when he asked, “If there is only one religion, why do you white people differ so much about it?” So many Europeans who came to this country in search of religious freedom all claimed to be the one true religion based on the Bible so no wonder it was confusing to the Native Americans who inhabited the land first. Even still, so many Christian faiths claim to be more truthful than the next, but all have a very similar basis of thought. To someone like me, who is relatively uninformed on the various Christian religions, this is such an obvious question and yet it is never asked.
Another thing that made an impression on me was the level of tolerance expressed by Sa-Go-Ye-Wat-Ha. He said that the Great Spirit has made them all, yet made them differently, so why not embrace the differences and accept it? Basically, why not agree to disagree but hold no hate or resentment for it? What a novel idea! This idea seems so simple and really, well, logical and yet it is so difficult for people to do.
I understand the desire or need to share what you know to be the truth with others - it always feels good when you think you're helping someone out - but if you have to force them to “see the truth” is it really sharing? Is it really bettering them or is it hurting them and making you the tyrant? The latter is just bad all around and it happens much too often, in history and today.
If more people could learn to embrace tolerance and probe their own beliefs (not to necessarily discourage them, but to also make their conviction stronger) I think there would be much less conflict!
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