Emerson makes a bold assertion (surprise surprise) right away in the introduction of his writings on Nature. He states, "Undoubtedly we have no questions to ask which are unanswerable."
This one statement really struck me. For there are plenty of mysteries in Christianity and there are plenty of questions that only God knows the answers to in life. Then again, however, he's not exactly saying we know the right answer to every question. He's just saying there's an answer to every question whether we know it or it's right or wrong. And that we might as well explore the possibilities.
Cool. Glad I answered my own question.
Another very striking statement occurred on the same page, in Chapter 1. "To go into solitude, a man needs to retire as much from his chamber as from society."
Wise man, for this statement is even more true today with the ever-presence of technology. When I'm surrounded by my cool stuff, there’s no way that I can possibly reflect on anything outside of the cool stuff and the memories that are associated with it. And what really is stuff to us anyway? What do we really need? My cool stuff is cool and pretty and artistic—especially my clothes. But there’s a difference between stuff for art’s sake and stuff for stuff’s sake. My stuff is such a wonderful distraction from real thought.
Emerson adds to this thought:
"The stars awaken a certain reverence, because though always
present, they are always inaccessible…"
It’s time I learn to appreciate this reverence and not fear it, hiding
away in the comforts of my cozy dorm room.
No comments:
Post a Comment