Transformations
Whether it be a diamond, a pearl, or a glass bead, in each case something dross or mundane was turned into something beautiful and prized. Sometimes this happens naturally, sometimes through culture, sometimes by being put through the caldron.
Thoughts & Deeds
Descartes said, “Cogito ergo sum,” I think, therefore I am. But it does not follow to say, “I think bad thoughts, therefore I am bad.” Or, conversely, “I think good thoughts, therefore I am good.”
Mining
It takes three billion years to produce a diamond. Even a cultured pearl can take up to two years to form. Yet you desire a gem every day. Perhaps I can interest you in a few glass beads instead?
By Indirections
If all forward progress took a direct route, then no cars would be equipped with the ability to go in reverse.
Learned the Hard Way
Experience is a good teacher, but bad experience is a better teacher.
Samsara in the Sky
It’s the errant star that gets noticed. It is called a “planet,” literally, “wanderer.”
Compose Yourself
All philosophy is biography, said Nietzsche. Your biography most accurately articulates your philosophy, say I.
