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- Go to some ponderings on effects vs goals
Thanks, Proc!
I think we often tend to see a desirable effect, and shift our focus to make it a goal, and that takes us away from the path we started out on, maybe distracts us from more important things. Like, starting on Blogit in order to write and interact, and then getting distracted by the popularity numbers and pennies.
By the way, I have been thinking about your exodus from South Africa since I read your first post about it. Just now, I saw your more recent one, as well. What a nightmare! I can't imagine trying to live there in that atmosphere! I can't imagine why anyone stays, who can get out, except maybe they have forgotten that there really is a better way to live.
anyone who thinks they can't help if they aren't immersed in it needs to hear about people who drown as they try to save someone else from drowning.
posted by
Ciel
on April 14, 2007 at 3:00 AM
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This is quite a balanced article.
Ive never quite though of heaven as a goal even though Im a Christian. I sort of feel better when Im doing for others but I do for myself too. Ive let go of being too selfless as it can really destroy the spirit. So you have put this really well.
posted by
proc
on April 14, 2007 at 1:24 AM
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Hi. Troosha!
It seems to me that the size of the circle distinguishing 'we' from 'them' is a way of defining an individual's or even a society's degree of civilization. Likewise, how inclusive one is in the defining of 'loved ones' has something to do with the degree of humanity.
I think those who get stuck on the score-card idea are the ones who are simply not particularly mature thinkers. Children, at a certain age,(around 6 or 7) find great security in scorecards, and rule-following: when they see someone else break the rules, they are very upset and indignant. When someone doesn't outgrow that stage of development, they become what I call 'clipboard guys,' always ready to put naughty people on report, guarding the Rules like a watchdog guards a treasure!
posted by
Ciel
on April 13, 2007 at 5:35 PM
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Ceil
If personal happiness also includes ensuring the happiness of your loved ones, than how can that possibly be construed as selfish. I think living in the here and now, enriching one’s life with positive experiences is highly underrated. I have never understood people who insist there is some sort of score card for entry to Heaven. A) What’s heaven anyway? B) If there is in fact a score card isn’t living a good, honest, and happy life going to result in huge points. Some good thoughts, Ceil, and well written. Thanks.
posted by
Troosha
on April 13, 2007 at 10:00 AM
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posted by
afzal50
on April 13, 2007 at 12:24 AM
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