Guest Post from Arthur Yavelberg: Social Pressures
I think this is so funny. But, of course, me being me, I have to overthink it. It reminded me of how important social media is to so many people--to the point where, if it's not posted, it did not really happen. That attitude reflects a deep, maybe insatiable need for connection with others and, worse, keeps us from living in the moment. Death has lots of negatives--well, maybe not, if we believe in any kind of after life, but that's a different question--but a big positive is supposed to be a relief from social pressures. As the Zen people say, "Be dead. Be thoroughly, absolutely dead. Then do what you like. All will be well." So, too, Jesus argues that "The Kingdom of Heaven is within you," suggesting that nothing in this physical life can really harm us at our spiritual core. Of course, there is the irony here that this rumination is being posted on FaceBook in response to a post on FaceBook. hmmm....I'll have to think more on that. I'll be sure...