Fragments on an Unknown Language: Perplexed on a Sunday Morning

Listening to an unknown language, we are confronted with the limits of our imagination. Understanding nothing at all about a foreign language, yet listening closely, only results in a better understanding of not-knowing. In this case, we must ask questions. It is only through asking questions (learning how to ask the right questions) that we [...]

James P. Carse: Religious War in Light of the Infinite Game

This is the only online lecture (reflection) I could find for the brilliant author of “Finite and Infinite Games,” retired New York University professor, James P. Carse. In this lecture, Carse talks about religion, war, finite games, infinite games, self-veiling, poeisis, religion and more. This is well worth your time if you are interested in [...]

Mindful Absorption: Fluidity and Mindfulness

Carl Rogers talks about “the fluid nature of the self.” But, how does one achieve such an awareness of the fluid nature of the self? Aside from my recent article, I will expand on a few key elements to this most elusive yet ordinary way of living, hopefully, moving us toward a better understanding [...]

20 Mindfulness Exercises for Improving Your Mental Hygiene

1. Become aware of your sitting, your clothes, the temperature and all that is “outside” of you now.
2. Imagine you are not separate from the ground, but a living happening of the world. (from Butoh)
3. Take a walk and open your ears to all of the sounds around you, experiencing them as they are.
4. [...]

The Beast of Fame – E.M. Cioran: An Explication of “Fame: Hopes and Horrors” (Lesson One)

People talk about us and we talk about other people, too. We are, simultaneously, connected and divided by our talk with others. What remains of me after I have a conversation with you is out of my control. Who I become for you is decided by you and through those conversations you have with other [...]