Personal Rant! (experience, advent, Zen, taoism)

Scarlett Wampus · #1 01-11-2006, 06:15 PM

Curiosity does not dictate how things are, should, or will be; it simply beckons us to find out for ourselves. Until now I've always been driven by a natural fascination to experiment and explore possibilities. I used to say to people that my reason for living was 'curiosity'. It has been a good companion since whenever I found myself down in a hole it was sheer curiosity that gave me the strength to claw my way out and carry on. Some might say that I wouldn't have fallen into so many holes if I hadn't been so curious. That may be so but someone possessed of curiosity cannot rest until it is satiated. If all goes well they wander off into dangerous & unknown territory, see and do many new things, and gain greater wisdom without getting killed in the process. Its a risk I've always felt willing to take...until now.

Lately it has occurred to me that there is a point where the risk involved in these excursions becomes greater than the risk of relying on what we already have. After 29 years of traveling I'm losing more than I'm gaining, I'm fed up and want to make my home. I first came across Taoism over fifteen years ago and Zen over eight years ago. Their philosophies and practices suited me so well but I wasn't ready, just too much out there I hadn't experienced. Now I can finally accept the limitations on lifestyle that the 'Zen Tao' path requires and also accept the effort that is required to walk it. Its a case of having enough experience to trust my ability to judge the odds of being happier doing this than other things.

This has been a long time coming (so excuse the personal indulgence!) and is a great relief!

Bishka · #2 01-11-2006, 06:18 PM

I am glad that you have found your way Scarlett Wampus. Congrats! Frubals to you.

Adam Hockworth · #3 01-11-2006, 08:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Scarlett Wampus

Lately it has occurred to me that there is a point where the risk involved in these excursions becomes greater than the risk of relying on what we already have.

"The more you travel, the less you know" TTC 47

Master Vigil · #4 01-11-2006, 11:24 PM

How does one know Tao? By what is within.

The sage knows the way of the world without stepping out of his door.

This doesn't mean that adventure and curiosity should be non-existent. Just no more than is necessary. The sage knows when he has enough, and thus is full.

Good luck. And I wish you much peace and joy on your journey.