The title of this essay and the photo is a wonderful ironic match, because somebody does indeed know what any of this is or how it got there. I mean, the janitor surely knows there should be a garbage can outside (or inside) the church so parishioners won't litter the immediate portal entrance to their holy gathering place, but the significance and meaning of why people do litter like that and what that garbage might symbolically represent could surely be the subject of many more essays about human behavior...
Thanks Robert. For me, it’s all subjective and so this life is experienced within this body and is unique. Can’t interpret how it is for any other. The sharing of experience is wonderful though but it must be owned and not preached as gospel.
Great essay Robert, love it. I especially love "unknowingly enveloped in a cloud of learned ignorance," very poignant.
I would add to what you said that in addition to no one having "secret inside information on ultimate matters," there isn't any such (knowable at least) information to be had. "What is" is only and always exactly as it is. What can be known is right there to see, experience, and know, because there isn't anything hidden.
The title of this essay and the photo is a wonderful ironic match, because somebody does indeed know what any of this is or how it got there. I mean, the janitor surely knows there should be a garbage can outside (or inside) the church so parishioners won't litter the immediate portal entrance to their holy gathering place, but the significance and meaning of why people do litter like that and what that garbage might symbolically represent could surely be the subject of many more essays about human behavior...
I love contemplative retreats, preferably contemplative retreats that are not connected to any particular religion, teacher, or philosophy.
I am a non-believer, and I believe in mystery and immanence.
This is difficult and I guess I am, according to what I see, I am a contemplative orphan.
Anyone else out there?
Thanks
Thanks Robert. For me, it’s all subjective and so this life is experienced within this body and is unique. Can’t interpret how it is for any other. The sharing of experience is wonderful though but it must be owned and not preached as gospel.
Great essay Robert, love it. I especially love "unknowingly enveloped in a cloud of learned ignorance," very poignant.
I would add to what you said that in addition to no one having "secret inside information on ultimate matters," there isn't any such (knowable at least) information to be had. "What is" is only and always exactly as it is. What can be known is right there to see, experience, and know, because there isn't anything hidden.
Zero. Bupkis. Nada. That feels about right. In addition, it makes me laugh. Thank you for that! 😅