I have often been plagued by the realization that I will never do anything "Great" with my "one wild and precious life". After all, my grade school teacher, wrote on my report card, "Kenneth, has the necessary attributes for becoming a great man." How disappointed she would be. But, I am acquiring a vision of what truly would create a "Great" life for me and those with whom I come in contact.
All of you who have visited this blog know that I have a great affection for Thomas Moore, author of Care of the Soul. In his book, "Writing in the Sand", Moore summarizes the Gospel Spirit this way: "Firstly, you cultivate a deep respect for people who are not of your circle and whom society rejects...Secondly, you do everything possible to deal effectively with demonic urges in yourself and in society. You do something about aggression, paranoia, narcissism, greed, jealousy, and violence... Thirdly, you play the role of healer in every situation.(Elsewhere, he explains that the word for healing can be translated "care".)... Finally, you stay awake and don't fall into the unconsciousness of the age. You also help others wake up to a thoughtful life imagined in fresh, original, and convivial ways."
What a radical challenge and worthy purpose for any life.
In the following interview, Moore expands on that final image of transcending unconsciousness.
Thomas Moore interview: Transcending unconciousness
I hope you find these words leave you wanting to read Writing in the Sand. Remember that you can often read extensive excerpts of the books that interest you, at Amazon(dot)com's "Look Inside Feature" and at books.google(dot)com.
In the meantime, have a "Great" life.
Swing dance at our Reception
Dancing to Come on Come on: by Mary-Chapin Carpenter:
