the philosophy of "Oh?"

[jjharts]

I am reading Alan Vaughan's book "Incredible Coincidence - the baffling world of synchronicity". I came across this little gem and wanted to share it with everyone.

This quote comes from Professor Mitsuo Aoki, who was a teacher of religion at the University of Hawaii.

"When my students question me about what they should believe and should not believe, I tell them that that is the wrong approach. There is mystery in life. One should hesitate before believing or disbelieving. If you hear of some incredible experience, don't say, 'I believe' or 'I disbelieve.' Say, 'Oh?' Appreciate that mystery of life. Understand that by only saying 'Oh?' can the true scientific and philosophic impulse be expressed. The philosophy of 'Oh?' can lead you to new discoveries of self."


How cool is this?!!!! I am going to adopt this philosophy - I expect I will be saying 'Oh?' alot from now on!!!

namaste,
Jerri

[Phigalilly]

That's a great philosophy! I once had an astronomy teacher who said to be very wary of "scientists" who think they have an answer for everything and that all their answers are correct. He began every lecture with "Here is what we know right now, it will probably change someday. Adjust.":)

[Rainmother]

I use that saying a lot.

When my son is told not to be out riding 4-wheelers after midnight, and at 12:30 A.M. when he is suppose to be at his friends house for the night, I find him half a mile down the road with his friend and two girls I've never met, riding 4-wheelers.

When he says "but mom, Butchie broke down and I had to come and help him" my left eyebrow raises, my arms cross, my foot starts tapping the ground and I say "Oh"

[Rainmother]

alright Pam!!! I can't post on any other thread but this one. I think I will go over to that "other board" and throw a temper tantrum about it! *LOL*:jumper:

[Rainmother]

WOW, talk about bad timing. I posted this last night, before the the issue was brought up over yonder. :eek:

[solana]

That is a wonderful philosophy. One that I wish more people would follow. I find it very frustrating to have a discussion with someone who considers themself open minded.. but it turns out that they are open only if your belif is similar to their own.


Isometimes go to another site.. ( it is a Q & A site ) nothing like this one, where any time someone posts something that is not along the lines of majority thinking.. they are blasted, flamed, called names etc..
( I go there to pick up mail mostly, and "see" a friend or two that still participates)

I have a mind to 'borrow' this quote and post it there.. but, no doubt it would be blasted.. sigh

Thanks for sharing this :)