QOTD #43

[ocelot]

"The real meaning of enlightenment is to gaze with undimmed eyes on all darkness." - Nikos Kazantzakis (1883-1957)

[shavonfan]

Okay, enlighten me on this one, because the dimmer switch on my eyes must be broken!

[ocelot]

I think there is so much darkness that we pass by and don't notice, and just accept. We are able to see the black part of darkness, but we often don't see the greys. We see the stuff that really shows the darkness but not the stuff that kind of hides it. For instance, some people just accept the the fact about bullies in high school it's not a black darkness but it can still greatly affect people in a negative way, some of the victims commit suicide, and some come back to hurt the people who bullied them (extreme example of this is Columbine). In these situations there is darkness before the situation turns black but very few people notice. Most terrible situations have hints that it might happen before it actually happens but very few people can notice it. I believe that's what he's talking about that people see darkness for what it is not just because it's totally black and anyone can see it, but also the darkness concealed with false light. There's people who are depressed that very few people can notice are depressed because they hide it so well, but there are people who are able to see beyond the masks and illlusions that they put out and are able to see the darkness. Ultimately, I think the quote is about seeing things for what they are, not ignoring the darkness that isn't as dark as others and not seeing some darkness as darker than it really is.

[shavonfan]

Thank you for enlightening me....I think that it is awesome. But I have to say, I like your commentary even better. Thank you for your thoughts.

[shavonfan]

Leona, I just want to thank you again for your commentary on this quote. It has given me a lot to think about today, so I appreciate it!