I took a class that focused on how to look like an expert. A question kept nagging at me – shouldn’t we be talking about how to become an expert, not just look like one?
Add to this nagging question, the definition I was once given of a “master.” The idea was that a true master did not have to speak of his/her virtues –That if there was really something there, others would speak of it. Now I am not saying that I am a true master, but I am saying that this idea of not spending my time on this blog or website telling you how good I am, seems, well, refreshing to me. There are, so many other things to talk about!
Finally, while I am third generation Japanese American, I am, in certain respects, quite Japanese. I still don’t find I want to horrify my parents and ancestors by blatantly and obviously talking about myself in a boastful manner. Of course, I am not so Japanese that I am sitting quietly at home waiting for you to notice me either. Balance.
One more finally: I have learned that the wisest people I have come across get that they don’t know everything and are therefore, always students. My favorite teachers were completely open to learning from their students. Not always so much in the subject matter, but in so many other ways. Even going a step further, I would say that I really gained confidence in what I know, when I realized I know “nothing.”
I am now worried, that in my own way, I just bragged and implied that I am a humble master. Well, all I can say is that I am very wabi-sabi – and happy to claim that.
People ask me if GeniusWork is spiritual, and if so, why I did not include this term when defining GeniusWork. I definitely think that when one (person, community, or world) finds his/her/its GeniusWork life, that that life will truly be about a level of spirituality that is profound and deep –which is the way I like my spirituality.
And yet, I will be honest – The word “spiritual” seems to be bandied about these days, in ways that seem to lessen it. Maybe it is simply because words are actually inadequate to convey spirituality. Maybe it is because the marketers have gotten to the word, and so are using it to sell you things – everything from books and coaching sessions, to products and media. Maybe it is because the logic and the ego may try to box it into a corner and offer it up as an answer to all your questions.
So I ask you to answer this question for yourself. Kristina mentioned the “spiritual and creative flow,” with an understanding that the two go together. And I know that for me, the way of GeniusWork is one that is very much fueled by a spiritual longing and exploration. I know that when Ann asked me if I was doing my GeniusWork, the resonance of the question entered me on many levels. I also know, that Rilke advised me years ago, to be willing to live the question.
In spirit,
Sakada
The ideas that have built the foundation of your life must be understood and continuously expanded and opened. The thoughtful exploration of your own philosophy is a key component of understanding your GeniusWork, taking you more fully into understanding and manifesting your ideas in the larger world.