Obs of a Prnnl Lrnr Obsrvr who happens to be a dctr There is no cure for curiosity-D Parker
Tuesday, 3 December 2024
Age
Monday, 2 December 2024
THOREAU X WALKING X SPIRITUAL
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Henry David Thoreau, a transcendentalist philosopher and writer, deeply valued the act of walking, seeing it as more than just physical movement. In his essay Walking, Thoreau explores the spiritual and philosophical dimensions of this seemingly simple activity. For him, walking is an act of communion with nature and a pathway to deeper self-awareness and universal truths.
Here are key spiritual aspects Thoreau associates with walking:
Connection to Nature: Thoreau believed that walking immerses one in the natural world, fostering a direct connection to the divine and the sublime. Nature, in his view, is a reflection of the spiritual order, and walking becomes a form of meditation and reverence for life.
Freedom and Renewal: Walking is a practice of liberation. It removes the constraints of societal obligations and allows the spirit to roam freely, rejuvenating the mind and soul. Thoreau saw it as a way to refresh one's perspective and align with the natural rhythms of the world.
Sacred Practice: Thoreau considered walking a kind of pilgrimage, an intentional journey that requires openness and mindfulness. He even described it as a form of sauntering, derived from the French sans terre (without land) or à la Sainte Terre (to the Holy Land), suggesting a sacred quest.
Inner Discovery: Walking provides space for contemplation and introspection. Thoreau believed that it allows one to step away from distractions and discover inner truths, cultivating a spiritual harmony that modern life often disrupts.
In essence, for Thoreau, walking was an art and a spiritual discipline. It represented a way of being that celebrated simplicity, mindfulness, and the intimate relationship between humans and the natural world.
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SPIRTUAL X SPIRITUS XBREATH
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The etymology of the word spiritual suggests breath. Spirit, Ruha, Atman, Chi, Ki, all derive from someone’s word for breath. And I think that’s what it is about: that which is as fundamental as our breath, our breathing. In one sense it means life. Core. Essence. The heart of the matter.
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APOCALYPTIC OPTIMIST
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apocalyptic optimist" is someone who views the possibility of catastrophic events or major societal upheavals with a unique mix of concern and hope. Instead of dwelling on despair or focusing solely on destruction, they look for opportunities for renewal, growth, and transformation in the aftermath of such events.
Key Traits of an Apocalyptic Optimist:
- Hope in Chaos: They believe that even in the face of disasters, humanity can find ways to adapt, innovate, and build a better future.
- Focus on Resilience: They emphasize the importance of preparing for challenges while believing that solutions can emerge from adversity.
- Change as a Catalyst: They may view apocalyptic scenarios as chances to reset unsustainable systems, address inequities, or foster greater cooperation.
- Vision of a Better World: They often imagine post-apocalyptic worlds where humanity has learned from past mistakes and created more harmonious ways of living.
Example Mindsets:
- After a natural disaster, they might focus on the unity it inspires in communities and the innovations that arise to prevent future crises.
- They might see climate change not just as a dire threat but also as a wake-up call that drives humanity toward renewable energy and sustainable living.