Archie Brock realizes that not only animals but also people, including himself, are getting smarter. They are talking more about the next election and rear-engine drives and less about the weather and the neighbours. Mrs Bergen reads a magazine instead of watching TV. Archie himself wonders, remembers, speaks out and wants to read books to answer questions about the universe and society.
Archie seeks advice from his employer, Mr Rossman, who says:
"'I feel it in myself too. And it's not altogether pleasant... I've always imagined myself as a quick, capable, logical thinker. Now something is coming to life within me that I don't understand at all. Sometimes my whole life seems to have been a petty and meaningless scramble. And yet I thought I'd served my family and my country well.' He smiled once more. 'I do hope I'll see the end of this, though. It should be interesting.'" (p. 34)
Rossman brings a positive attitude to a new situation. While Archie begins for the very first time to reflect on his life, Rossman's habitual reflections transcend themselves as he begins to see through his previous self-image.
But should we not all feel as Rossman does even without an increase in intelligence? First, we expect to mature and to deepen our understanding with age. Secondly, religious or contemplative practices should have some effect albeit gently, gradually and differently for each individual. I can speak only for myself. However, decades of zazen practice mean that I do not congratulate myself as a logical thinker and do see the many limitations of my life to date!
The world would be better if we reflected more. Why don't we?
1 comment:
Kaor, Paul!
We don't "reflect" more because we are all of us imperfect, corruptible, prone to strife and conflict. To say nothing of how there are many faiths, philosophies, political beliefs, etc., which are irreconcilable. Something to be managed, not solved.
Ad astra! Sean
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