Saturday, July 18, 2015

On Form and Function

Let us consider the 20th century architectural/design principle that "form follows function", that is the principle that the shape of an object or structure should be primarily based upon its intended function or purpose. Life is the very archetype for this principle, both macrocosmically and microcosmically. Imagine yourself stepping back to observe the whole of existence, as a pedal might a bicycle. Perhaps from such a vantage point you would exclaim, "Aha! So, that is what I am part of. I am this way so it may function that way." But since the pedal, as some seemingly insignificant component, can no more understand the persistent force that is exerted upon it from its place in existence than we as humans can, instances such as the crushing weight of a foot relentlessly bearing down atop it or the contrasting sense of weightlessness & relief felt due to an effortless downhill glide may be the difference between the sense of adversity and good fortune that is felt by a human. Microcosmically, the pedal (a small mass made possible by the concentration of a lot of energy) is a mechanism for the transportation of energy. Macrocosmically, the bicycle (an even larger mass) is a mechanism for the transportation of even more energy. Conceivably, we are structured - constantly evolving, as all else is - to fill some dynamic need in the greater process that is continuously unfolding. This is a very big picture we are a part of.

For me, the whole of existence is like a tapestry comprised of all manner of being. It is an infinitudinal mural amidst which every temporal and spiritual expression or manifestation of the greater reality may be realized and explored; a mural escarpment that endlessly stretches in all directions, adorned by all that exists. All are functioning components serving some purpose or another; where even our form, as human being, is governed by our intended function. I trust in the infinite, inexorable, exploratory, and ultimately ineffable wisdom of the process at-hand. I trust that no matter our self-abasement, modesty or self-importance, as humans (i.e. the youngest species), we are but a tiny piece of an unimaginably larger process. I trust that process. It is the initiator, the sustainer, and prevailer. It is all there is, be it the "Entire universe", "Multiverse", "Ultimate Nature of Reality", "God", or whatever have you. It is my greatest love.


It is easy to get ourselves so very worked up about things; how we "ought" to handle ourselves, one-another, natural resources, or the earth from which our resources are derived. We argue, agree, and concede as regards these matters of grave human consequence. We draw ourselves in to little ideological boxes that determine our values, inform our behaviors, and tear us apart from one-another only to bring us together. We, at the level of human being, open up to and close ourselves off from all manner of possibility as we search for and express an understanding of this phenomenon we've termed "existence" or "life". We discuss and address all manner of concern as only a human may, from the perspective (and with the brain) of that one variety of being called "human". In trusting the infinite, inexorable, exploratory, and ultimately ineffable wisdom of said process one may find peace of body, mind, and spirit in knowing all that we as humans collectively experience and feel is what our form is made capable of experiencing, feeling, and making some such sense of (be it the truth of the matter or not). For what reason(s) - if any exist - we've been developed for is beyond me. But something deep inside of me is constantly suggesting that what I (and all) are a part of is great and more than worthy of my unwavering gratitude. So here's to functioning as a human being! For if there were some other function we were meant to serve we would have quite possibly taken some other form. At the very least, we are a part of something far greater than humanness (however much we enjoy overstating our import vis-à-vis Anthropocentrism). So, fear or fear not the state of things and know that whatever we express as humans is as it may be intended. And, though our focus may be on the nature and circuit of the pedal, be reminded of the bicycle; and sensitive to the path upon which the bicycle journeys; the earth upon which that path is carved; the universe in which a planet is situated; the unknown amidst which universes are strewn; and the possibility of so much more than we are currently capable of imagining. Enjoy your form! Enjoy your function! Enjoy the ride.

Be Well, Loved Ones...

Albert

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