Sunday, April 14All That Matters

Philosopher Alan Watts in 1971, filmed at Druid Heights above the Muir Woods in San Francisco

by Mad_Season_1994

Philosopher Alan Watts in 1971, filmed at Druid Heights above the Muir Woods in San Francisco

Philosopher Alan Watts in 1971, filmed at Druid Heights above the Muir Woods in San Francisco from OldSchoolCool




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9 Comments

  • Sernsheim

    He had a bit where he handed out embroidery to those listening for an example in what he was talking about. It was a mindblowing listen and I cant find it now.

    Reply
  • grateful-biped

    Alan Watts was a brilliant writer & a fascinating person. But his philosophy reminds me of the scenario presented to me by a few enlightened Christians (we were all in drug & alcohol recovery).

    They would say, “Let Go, let God.” Initially it helps the recovering addict to give up their obsessive thoughts about drugs & begin living in the present. “Surrendering your ego” is the principle you’re working towards & Watts also talks about this idea.

    Next they would tell me to ask God to reveal his/her will. Instead of acting in your interest, you’re meant to listen for God’s Will. Through meditation or prayer.

    The weeks/months passed, and I felt like I was stuck in a circle-like labyrinth or paradox. Even in the quiet nothingness of meditation or prayer, how do I know the thoughts or feelings I’m experiencing aren’t emanating from within me?

    There’s no escaping the ego, the mind, brain, or whatever you choose to call your thoughts.

    I have no doubt that I made better decisions after I had spent some time in quiet contemplation. When I meditated I became more aware of the world outside of myself. It could be a dog howling or the wind pushing on a screen door. I experienced less interference when I settled down & I had often felt a surge of contentment.

    Unfortunately, I was never able to determine what was God’s will & what was my own mind’s wanderings. If I meditated on two important choices: was I ready to begin a new relationship with 14 months of sobriety, or was 14 months not enough recovery time?

    I would listen, pray & meditate, but ultimately I could fill both sides of my pros & cons list using my rational mind – not God’s Will. There was no guidance coming from God or Nature or Nothingness.

    The same could be said for bigger decisions such as choosing between environmentalism & middle-class jobs. We don’t live in a laboratory where we can do 10 years of experimenting: a decision must be made & splitting the difference (a compromise) isn’t always possible (good jobs which provide substantial benefits are not available in abundance; an environmental compromise might not be enough to slow down the destruction of an ecosystem).

    I think the Philosophy of Watts & the words of wisdom from my recovery group were positive & useful. But neither provided a longterm solution for personal or big world problems.

    Reply
  • scroobius_

    This guys voice and teachings are so on point. I found a lot of beneficial ideas and mind exercises from listening to him, GOAT.

    Reply

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