Perspective

I needed to search for something on Wikipedia today, and the following information was on the front page as a feature:

Anekantavada is one of the most important and basic doctrines of Jainism. It refers to the principles of pluralism and multiplicity of viewpoints, the notion that truth and reality are perceived differently from diverse points of view, and that no single point of view is the complete truth. Jains contrast all attempts to proclaim absolute truth with adhgajanyāyah, which can be illustrated through the maxim of the "Blind Men and an Elephant". In this story, one blind man felt the trunk of an elephant, another the tusks, another the ears, another the tail. All the men claimed to explain the true appearance of the elephant, but could only partly succeed, due to their limited perspectives. According to the Jains, only the Kevalins—the omniscient beings—can comprehend objects in all aspects and manifestations; others are only capable of partial knowledge. Consequently, no single, specific, human view can claim to represent absolute truth.

If we are open to circumstance, we allow the Creator to communicate with us. Being aware of subtle messages by living in the moment allows us to receive guidance.

I mean, what do we expect - the clouds opening up a la Monty Python?

So I gratefully accept wisdom where I find it, even on the front page of an encyclopedia. A little perspective, a little humility, is a good thing for us all - particularly in an election year when the media wants to suck us in for its own benefit.

The stock market will come back, someone will get elected and things won't change much, gas prices will return to normal or we'll be using something else... better to just enjoy the day and not worry so much.

In farm news, Chef Jeff will be at Yellow Dog Knitting this weekend for Eau Claire's International Fall Festival! The street will be closed, there will be food vendors and music and lots of shopping. Chef Jeff will have the 2008 crop of wool roving and mohair clouds available, and will be able to tell you all about the individual animals the fiber comes from (they're labeled with the animal's name and photo).

If you need spinning fiber from happy, compassionately-treated animals, or just want to know more about sheep and goats, come on down for a visit. Chef Jeff may even share his Indian cooking secrets if you ask...

Have a great weekend!