Ignorance Needs an Outlet

 Ignorance Needs an Outlet

People with unimpaired intellect have probably all pondered the meaning of their existence at some point, or at least considered what they are living for. In other words, when looking at humanity from an animalistic perspective, almost everyone needs an outlet. Taking it a step further to ask why, it’s likely because when we map each individual against the backdrop of the universe, time, society, and spirit, no matter who they are, they are probably ignorant—and ignorance needs an outlet.

From a broader perspective, different individuals—or even the same individual at different stages of life—face varying factors such as family background, social environment, opportunities, natural disasters, human calamities, and even genetics. Because of these differences, the outlets for ignorance are unlikely to be the same for everyone. Some people, at times, can only persist in living; others can only wait slowly for death. Some seek value through scientific exploration and innovation, while others search for happiness in social contribution and service. Some find peace in the mercy and tolerance of religion, while others experience joy through philosophical introspection and enlightenment. Still others look for a comfortable place within the bonds of family, friendship, or even love in their interpersonal relationships. And so on. Essentially, there’s no inherent hierarchy or distinction of nobility among different people or their outlets. Of course, this statement comes with a prerequisite: the conflict between the pursuit of personal desires and the desires of others, in any outlet, should not result in absolute negation. This, perhaps, is the difference between good and evil. Goodwill often stems from understanding—understanding the suffering of others—while malice often arises from self-centeredness, the belief that “I am the center of the world.” Yet understanding and self are both relative, which brings us back to ignorance itself.

For an individual alone, only ignorance is certain. The degree of ignorance is hard to quantify, and the directions of its outlets are endlessly diverse. Yet none can likely transcend the simple saying: “One flower, one world; one year, one cycle of bloom and wither.” Ignorance is self-awareness, and outlets are all processes. Inwardly, reflect more on the cycles of blooming and withering; outwardly, dwell more on the flower. Outwardly, life can be as vibrant as a tapestry; inwardly, the mind can remain serene. Good and bad are not easily defined, but good and evil must be distinguished.

Inner cultivation lies in the heart, and what it seeks to nurture is likely goodwill. Outward pursuit lies in the Way, seeking perhaps the great Dao—revering the heavens, believing in the divine, and blending humbly among the masses.