Crossing Nebraska

A monk presented himself to a Zen master. “I come seeking liberation,” he said. “Who has enchained you?” the Zen master replied. “No one,” answered the monk. “Then why seek liberation?” the master responded. This is one of those conversations in which a teacher provides a so-called “turning word” to a student, thereby clarifying their understanding and perhaps even nudging them toward realization. Merriam-Webster definition of word Yes, words can have great power. We might think we have a great problem (needing liberation, for instance) only to suddenly realize that the problem doesn’t really exist at all. We only think we have a problem. Many people consider themselves “broken” these days and in need of “healing.” Sometimes, though, it’s only a matter of being stressed from the busyness and chaos of contemporary life. Nonetheless, they seek out “cures” and “healing practices” which, in reality, are merely rest and relaxation. On the other hand, there are those who’ve experienced d...

Wouldn’t it be great if the wisest among us were the ones in power? Sadly, though, that’s not the case. And wouldn’t it be great if the wisest among us were also the ones with the strongest will? Then the will to power would be informed by deep and reflective wisdom. But that’s not the case either. There appears to be no positive correlation between wisdom and strength of will, and the correlation may even be a negative one. In fact, if Socrates was correct, and "the only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing,” then the wisest among us may deem themselves unworthy of leading! Edward Crawford throws a teargas canister shot by police at Black Lives Matter  protesters in Ferguson, Missouri. Crawford was later found dead under suspicious circumstances that may have been homicide or may have been suicide. Might this explain the federal government we presently have in the United States? We seem to now be led by the stupidest of individuals who are cocksure of themselves and a...