Throughout history, philosophers have reflected on the importance of thinking – some would even assert that this is our reason for being. Beyond the significance of 7 days or quoting one of the most obvious philosophical references reflecting thought leading to existing, I’ll instead reflect on another idea I have discovered, “The mind is like a fire to be kindled, not a vessel to be filled”. — Thomas Carlyle. An interesting idea: the light inside of us which must be continually fed and stoked to thrive, and an inherent allusion to the importance of application. I like this idea because it resonates with me, and I hope it does you too. If you are hearing or reading this paper looking for something concrete and tangible that you can hold onto and admire, you might be greatly disappointed, and this is not the point.
The great thinkers in this world are keen observers that have mastered the idea that, “Silence at the proper season is Wisdom, and better than any speech.” — Plutarch. It is important that we take the time to breathe in our world, and digest and apply our experiences in how we respond. I fear it is not enough to breathe in worldly circumstances only to exhale programmed responses. To do so would be at odds with a builder looking to shape and hew himself; instead failing to engage the mind, consider our experience, and failing to apply what we know. It would be akin to becoming a non-player character of a video game or an unnamed extra in a movie. I don’t believe this is what it means to be free or accepted.
Modern science seems to be catching up with more ancient ideas and traditions. For many, this is confusing and warrants resistance. For example, what if manifestation is not actually magical hocus-pocus, but an idea with merit in the world of qubits, entanglement, and multiple universes? Is it possible that energy and resonance align us with infinite possibilities – all within the confines of a thought? It’s an interesting idea, but one that I believe requires the utmost honor, humility, and gratitude. Whatever our beliefs, intent remains important.
Some will claim these ideas are hubris or worse, but I ask how this is different than prayer or sending warm wishes? In a world that has become so hoodwinked, do we lose sight of the beauty of our real potential and distracted by that which seems to be more physical, observable, or believable? Do we still value the idea of transmuting ourselves into something better or will we decide to yield our great potential of thought and action to one of our very own creations in the name of comfort, optimization, automation, and a desire for what we think is eutopia on earth? Are we willing to outsource thinking?
While I think there is no greater honor to our creator than to attempt imitating him, I must wonder what signal we send if we try so hard to replace higher planes with this one. If we believe in something bigger, I wonder why we place so much stake in circumstances destined to fade and crumble. If I am honest, I struggle with this as well. Perhaps this is also a part of the grand design.
Are we living a reality or a dream? How do we know? Is there something bigger at play that we cannot see? Our ability to ask such questions is a great gift from our creator. We should not be so quick to turn over our humanity or yield our ability to think to established experts, consensus or technology. Doing so would make the world a much less interesting and stagnant place. Tools are great mechanisms to assist in performing tasks, inspire thought, and enable, but they must not replace human experience and intent. As Pike said, “What we have to do is find a way to use our knowledge to help others.” To that end, remember to use your gift of thought, and travel well my Brothers.