How do I talk about what it means to be human, and why do I want to have that conversation?
Well, it is terrifically difficult on the one hand, and on the other, it is what we always do when we talk with people. I want to have this conversation to share and confirm with others the unfolding experience of being alive. Why are we so dull and complacent about this sacred and awe-inspiring position of being alive and human?
So first, what do I mean when I say it is difficult? Everyone is human; we all experience life through this template. When we take our position as human beings for granted, we don’t acknowledge what it means to be in this body, with this particular configuration of mind, on this planet, at this time in the human story. We concentrate more on what is not common, what is not our ideal, and what is unusual. But the day-to-day and moment-to-moment is not acknowledged for the thing it is. This thing “that is” could be called a particular view of Life through the human lens. If the view is broadened, we are just Life participating in Life. However, if we want to narrow it down to what it means to be human, there is still a lot of territory to cover. But we are dull and afraid of saying what we see. It may seem too obvious. It may seem incriminating, especially if we are unsure if we have responded correctly. We may feel soiled by the experience and unwilling to tell others. We may have to admit uncertainty, even revulsion, or complicity at what we have gone through. Our positive outlook on Life will be questioned, and the cheerful facade will not be convincing. So, there is a lot of self-protection while having a conversation. I may think an observation is so obvious that it’s not worth discussing. Or it may not be obvious, but disturbing, and it brings up many emotions that I am not sure are appropriate to share (although when we do, it seems very important). There is fear of being the messenger that is not appreciated. It might be dangerous as people will avoid you for saying what they don’t want to confront. You may ruin someone’s ideal plans or create fear and anger when you give them the news. It’s much better to agree on the day's weather conditions. It’s much better to keep things light, positive, and short. Who has time to delve into what is deep and concerning and that will create an emotional tone that will linger? Sometimes, people won’t agree with what you report, and then you are in conflict with them. There could be an argument, or you could just feel chastised and foolish for revealing your thoughts. You might see they are correct in arguing against your statement, and now you don’t trust your assessment. Or you might feel relieved they could help you see another view, and now you feel more space and clarity. You know that you aren’t alone in your observations and concern. Isn’t this why we talk with other humans: to be confirmed in our observations, verify reality, and know if we are interpreting our experience correctly?
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