Friday, April 8, 2011

"To me, it suffices to wonder at these secrets and to attempt humbly to grasp with my mind a mere image of the lofty structure of all that there is."

—Albert Einstein

Upon a friend’s recommendation, I’ve begun reading the book Please Understand Me II, a study of human temperament, character and intelligence, written by David Keirsey. The section on rationals begins with this quote, which is how Albert Einstein ended an essay he wrote, summing up his philosophy on life while expressing his insatiable passion for science.
I love reading books or discussing with individuals subjects that make us ponder things on a deep level. About the only thing better is to learn more about the complexities of the human mind and why folks are driven to do, say, and act upon those things that they do.
Earlier today, I went out to grab a bite to eat with our youngest son. On the way there, during and on our return, we delved into the subject of perception. It began with his asking me what it feels like to be my age. Of course, he was quick to point out that he didn’t think I was old or anything, but that at his age of fifteen, he felt as though he’d lived forever. That makes him wonder what it would be like to be my age.
In answer to his question, I drew from our conversation yesterday about the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster as well as the collapse of the Twin Towers. I pointed out how, although he was alive during the falling of the Twin Towers, he was young enough to have not fully grasped that event. But that when he viewed the video of it on his smart phone yesterday, he gained far more profound meaning from the event that has since shaped the lives of how Americans view their safety.
I went on to say that being my age was a lot like this. Like my son, there have been historical events that, although I was alive at the time they occurred, it wasn’t until years and years later that I was able to fully comprehend their significance—too young or inexperienced at the time they occurred. I shared how being my age was cool, for I like to think that I’ve gained some insight along my life’s journey. And in the words of Albert Einstein, I “wonder at these secrets and attempt to humbly grasp with my mind a mere image of the lofty structure of all that there is.”