From environmentalist John Muir:
“I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in.”
This quote is from a post on Courage to Create blog encouraging us to spend more time outdoors.
Out of context, I find another meaning in it as well. Muir's thought about going out or going in reminds me that I learn more about myself by going out among people than I do in solitary contemplation.
I do find meditation tremendously valuable, for calm, for allowing ideas to emerge, and as a religious practice.
However, to learn more about myself, there's nothing like a conversation with a client, clerk, husband or friend, about what I can or can't do for them, and what I want or don't want from them, to show me who I am.
Sometimes this "going out" takes more gumption than it might seem. I think that's true for a lot of us.
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4 comments:
Hi Peggy,
Going out, takes a whole lot for me these days, but I definitely agree with you. When we isolate ourselves, the only ideas that we can experience are our own. Not always beneficial when things aren't going well.
I think I will follow your cue, and spend a little more time outdoors. I have to do something to get outside of my own mind.
Hugs,
Debbie
Are you ailing, Debbie? If so, I'm sorry indeed.
And the "going out" I was talking about can actually be done inside the the house. You're already doing it.
I also like Muir's idea. Just getting out into the yard can do great things.
Anyway, I hope you are well.
Hi Peggy,
My younger brother died suddenly, two weeks ago. He was 41 years old, and he left behind his two daughters ages 5 and 9. To make matters worse, my mother and my sister-in-law are both stuck in anger which they have unleashed on me. Very complicated and quite surreal. I was close to my brother so this has been quite a shock.
I am curious about the "going out" that you are talking about, inside the house. Any recommendations? I could use all of the advice I can get, right now.
Hugs,
Debbie
Oh, Debbie, I am so sorry. What a huge loss.
I have two younger brothers, twins, both so dear to me, who both had open heart surgery the same month last year.
I so feared what you're now going through. And I wish you every comfort and source of strength.
The going out I was talking about is being involved with people. And you sure are.
I'm thinking about you, dear.
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