By An Accident I...
Submitted by thekenshow on Thu, 2008-09-11 13:12.
No matter what Debbie Harry says, accidents do happen in a perfect world. The sixth point in the Incomplete Manifesto is concerned with how we relate to them:
6. Capture accidents.
The wrong answer is the right answer in search of a different question. Collect wrong answers as part of the process. Ask different questions.
In the Dzogchen tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, the following sequence of meeting the world is recommended as a way of uncovering and sustaining a clear mind:
- Recognize
- Contact
- Release
It's terrific advice for developing equanimity but leaves a bit to be desired when it comes to writing songs. All that's needed to set matters right is a soupçon of 6:
- Recognize
- Contact
- Capture
- Release
Capturing our accidents doesn't happen by accident, it takes intention and practice. But once you get the hang of it, those four simple steps are a potent means of engaging the world while stoking the creative fire.
