“Earth and sky, woods and fields, lakes and rivers, the mountain and the sea, are excellent schoolmasters, and teach some of us more than we can ever learn from books.” ~ John Lubbock
I happened upon the most delightful of stories this morning, one that so clearly demonstrated the capacity of all living things towards love.
When I was much younger, a 'well-intentioned' school teacher tried to convince me of something most absurd - that there was no such thing as a truly unselfish act.
We were discussing the works of author, Mark Twain. More specifically, his essay entitled, What is Man? - which so poignantly captures the dialogue between an idealistic youth, and a jaded old man.
It is a powerful analysis of the 'human condition' - begging further examination of man's motivation towards other men. The jaded old man, of course, arguing vehemently that all conduct stems from one single motive - that of self-satisfaction.
It was by far, Mark Twain's most spiritual, and philosophical book - which he ironically kept locked inside his desk, only to be published long after his death.
And, if the conversation I had on that day was any indicator - I could most certainly understand why.
We Southerners are quite skillful, you see, at shaking up the proverbial bees nest - and leaving before the welts have had their chance to form.
For some reason, I was reminded of our conversation this morning - and in watching this video.
I have always believed action to be a reflection of spirit - and that love, is the most powerful motivator of all.
But, what do you think?
My dears, are we so firmly bound by the destiny of genetics?
Or...is there something much greater coming into play?
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