Last night I finished reading “Zen in the Art of Archery” and I have some thoughts I’m playing with.
First off, I think it is a profound book about cultural openness and exploration of the self through novel experiences which I think is super powerful. Explorations like this give us the chance to put our own views under the microscope in an effort to seek greater clarity and understanding.
Second, the difference between Eastern and Western Philosophy regarding “purpose” stood out in a way that I think I have never even considered exploring, and honestly will likely take me a long time to fully work out. This is really where I want to focus in my reflection today.
It seems that in the west we strive to find purpose and meaning in our lives by, with, and through the things we do. “Zen in the Art of Archery” opened my mind to the idea that this pursuit of purpose can also be inherently limiting and may keep us from truly mastering our lives and the way we live. As an utter novice in the concept of Zen, it seems like intent of the practitioner of an art (archery, swordsmanship, painting, flower arrangements, ect.) is to seek to freedom from purpose and ego in the expression of the art and in so doing finds mastery of the art and greater mastery of their life.
Don’t get me wrong, I think there is immense value in both Eastern and Western stances on purpose. When I was talking through this with my most trusted advisor, friend, and mentor… she pointed out the potential relevance of the symbolism in the Yin and Yang. Order and Chaos or control and freedom.
Lots of ideas to explore. I’d love some additional perspective if anyone feels like jumping in.
