Thoughts
'Life is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be experienced. Soren Kierkegaard
I got a little inspiration from a friends journal i read that reignited my love of philosophy. Kierkegaard is one of my favorites, i enjoy his quotes because to me they feel more like said in a understanding, that moment of 'AH HA!' instead of a quote created to be a soothe for others. Not that theres anything wrong with a gentle saying on a card or speech, but philosophers always felt like thier quotes came from much diliberation and personal reflection to reveal a 'truth' to them.
To me reading the above quote isnt just a collection of words, but an understanding to me that enlightens my soul.
'Kind words do not cost much. Yet they accomplish much.' Blaise Pascal
It's words like these that sing more than speak. They heal me and help me along my way. Philosophy is a latin word and translated means 'love of wisdom' and to me wisdom is the key.
'To find yourself, think for yourself.' Socrates
These were people that literally shapped the world with words (don't belive me? Arostotle 'invented' physics through his philosophy. No physics, no computers, no lights, no cars, nothing). I find it compelling to hear the thoughts of such great teachers. I emplore you to find one you like, they can be a wonderful mentor. Just a few names of some (besides those mentioned above) Plato, Albert Camus, Fredrich Nietche, Immanuel Kant, Baruch Spinoza, Ayn Rand, Hypatia
Just look them up and read thier quotes, find some that relate. this is a beautiful thing to me.
Replies
I’m not sure if I ever told you, but I appreciated every hug you send (I say this now because I remember you said in one that they are free but worth a lot). They made me smile in the middle of a difficult week.
I don’t personally find the same motivational/spiritual spark in philosophy as you do. It’s more of an intellectual thing for me. I always figured truly important things need more than a few quotes to be said, though I’ve also only really had exposure to the beautiful sounding, deliberative, soothing, not-necessarily-correct stuff. I guess there’s no reason not to try it?
Kierkegaard sounds like a viking name
As Danish as a... Danish pastery gaff lol
Gotcha
Don't limit your philosophy review to what is presented a classroom. We all have a little philosopher in us and new greats are forming as I type. You might be one of them, Ollie. Philosophy is a BIG subject of many, many tendrils and continual rebirth.
A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are for. ~Seneca
Even bricklayers can be philosophers. They also can be psychologists.