The Space Between

What are the most important questions of life?

Philosophical questions addressing life’s open-ended mysteries interest me most. I’m a mystic at heart, a person who, according to Evelyn Underhill (1875-1941), seeks “union with reality.” 

From a practical standpoint, that means not only endeavoring to improve my life and the lives of those around me, but also accepting circumstances beyond my control. I think of my life as an entrance ramp to a highway. It’s on me to merge smoothly regardless of the road conditions. 

Everyone sets boundaries. No boundary is more fiercely protected than the Self. However, as soon as we set that boundary, and everyone does, a battle ensues between Self and the world. The stronger the boundary of Self, the greater the battle and the greater the illusion of separation. I say illusion, because as naturalist John Muir (1838-1914) rightfully said, “When one tugs at a single thing in nature, [he] finds it attached to the rest of the world.” 

Radical interconnectedness is a fundamental design aspect of reality. But it poses some problems, like where do I fit in? And how do we belong? Historically, most people turned to organized religion for answers. These days, institutional answers are losing their sway, and yet, many are still searching.

The answers to questions of belonging lie in the space between. A space ripe with energy we can feel, but not control. Relational energy pours out of us into the space between and yet is retained within us.  Think of the space between you and your partner, a family member, a friend, a piece of art, or a meaningful location. Philosopher Ken Wilber claims such spaces are imbued with the “Miracle of We.”

The miracle of we provides infinite opportunities for belonging, whereas Self narrows one’s encounter with life. Ego, of course, is something we all struggle with. The central question is this: How can one find union with reality when likes, dislikes, hopes, and dreams are dashed by uncontrollable circumstances? 

We hurt when we don’t get our way. And yet, why would any rational person expect things to routinely turn out in their favor?

The problem, as it turns out, is our insistence on viewing the world through the lens of “Me.” 

Is there any other way? 

It turns out that there is, and I address it in my new book, The Secret Within.

I received an author’s proof of the book last week. It’s not very long, considering it took ten years to write. I guess I followed Winston Churchill’s advice to spend the time required to make a shorter “speech.” I read the book again (for about the sixth time) and have to admit I am proud of it. 

I’ll share related posts and promotional videos when the book is released in a couple of weeks. So, you have that to look forward to. 😎 

Thanks for coming along with me on the journey!

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