Quote:
Originally posted by Sharpedge:
Hmm. Now that's an interesting question. It's something I've often considered and I believe it to be entirely relevant to the human condition (which is why I like the quote so much). Would our lives have any meaning if we didn't have to deal with our darker side (and, indeed, the darker side of life in general)? I would say our 'duel nature' is both a strength and a weakness. Growth is not always triggered by conflict, though I suppose some of our most profitable evolutions originate in hardship.
It’s not a question that can be answered quickly or easily and the only thing I’m sure of is that I cannot give a complete answer.
What do you think?
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Going to answer your question with a question, at least initially... What would you see as the non conflict/non dark side factors that contribute to growth as being?
(Would also like to make the rather obvious point that conflict/the presence of the shadow side doesn't always result in growth. It is possible to blame all situations/events on third parties, completely abdicating one's own responsibility in relation to such. This is a well worn path, and I have walked it myself many times, especially in younger years.
This type of response often has its roots in the fact that many people don't realise the potential for growth that lies within each one of us, or are afraid of it. They take refuge in 'powerlessness' and the consequent inaction that that way of thinking brings, with the result that the growth that could have taken place, does not.
Growth is inevitable, however, however slowly it happens, and I have noticed that if one refuses to learn from a certain situation or event, life is likely to evolve in such a way that the opportunity for a particular form of growth is presented again and again.
This repetition is due, generally speaking, to one's being stuck in (often unconscious) behavior patterns. Such behavior patterns lead to consequences which must be dealt with, again and again, presenting themselves often in different guises, but presenting themselves nevertheless. Until the source of the patterns are explored and understood, chances are that you'll keep coming up against the same type of problems/uncomfortable or difficult life situations until you have 'grown out' of them.
Anyway, that's what I think! Bit simplistic, maybe... but it'll have to do for now..
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Most Ecstatic and Exotic Mistress of the Illuminati
[This message has been edited by Silver Cheetah (edited 10-04-2001).]