Saturday, November 4, 2017

Commentary on Meditations: B7:5-7

Is my mind sufficient for this task, or is it not? If it is, I use it for the task as an instrument given me by the nature of the Whole. If it is not, I either cede the work (if it is otherwise my responsibility) to someone better able to accomplish it, or do it as best I can, calling in aid someone who, in cooperation with my own directing mind, can achieve what is at this particular time the need and benefit of the community. Whatever I do, either by myself or with another, should have this sole focus the common benefit and harmony.

How many who once rose to fame are now consigned to oblivion: and how many who sang their fame are long disappeared.

Do not be ashamed of help. It is your task to achieve your assigned duty, like a soldier in a scaling-party. What, then, if you are lame and cannot climb the parapet by yourself, but this is made possible by another's help?

The first and third passages above, both deal with our duties of action (discipline of action).  If you can perform the task, then perform it to the best of your ability.  If you cannot, then ask for help and don't be ashamed to ask for help.  People who can help, either will help willingly and with a good attitude or they may help with a bad attitude.  Either way, their attitude is their own.  If they are unwilling to help at all, no matter.  Ask another or do the best you can.

The second passage, is yet again, a reminder of memento mori.  We are already dead.  Enjoy the now.

(see also Citadel p. 204, 268, 287)

No comments:

Post a Comment