19.3.09

22 - 29 Mar 2009

We are coming to the end of our series of quotations on the theme of 'understanding and wisdom'. A well-known Indian writer and speaker said:
"Learning is the very essence of humility".
Jiddu Krishnamurti (1895-1986, Indian writer, speaker and philosopher).

In order to learn we have to admit to ourselves that we do not know or what we do know is inadequate. Arrogance is the opposite of humility, but we hear arrogant statements from many people including politicians, academics and religious people.

12.3.09

15 - 22 Mar 2009

We continue with another quotation about knowing people rather than things:
“The one who knows others is wise;
the one who knows the self is enlightened”
Laozi also known as Lao Tzu, Lao Tse, Laotze, Lao Zi (4th or 6th century BCE and may represent a number of ‘Old Masters’, Chinese Taoist philosopher).

Have you seen any of the Bourne films (The Bourne Identity, The Bourne Supremacy and The Bourne Ultimatum)? They are about Jason Bourne’s frantic mission to find out who he is and how he has come to be where he is. Knowing oneself is an important part of our life’s journey – and our spiritual journey, whatever our faith or belief. Who are we? Are we determined by our genes or our environment or ...? How have we come to be where we are? Is it possible for us to change? These are questions which all religions and philosophies have addressed because they focus on what it means to be human. For Jason Bourne, only when he comes to terms with his past and who he is can he move on.

5.3.09

8 - 15 Mar 2009

In this series on the theme of 'understanding and wisdom', until now I have focused on knowing things. However, I was sent this quotation about getting to know people. The person who sent it to me was reminded about this quotation as he heard that Barack Obama is to open more dialogue with Iran a few weeks ago, and said that Obama has been inspired by Lincoln and maybe he is putting some of his ideas into practice:
"I don't like that man. I must get to know him better"
Abraham Lincoln (1809 –1865, 16th President of the United States of America from 1861 to 1865).