A rock seems heavy.
But is a rock heavy
or do its properties
make it more subject
to gravitational pull?
A thought seems heavy.
But is a thought heavy
or are we simply afraid of losing
that which the thought contains?
As above, so below.
That which is most crushing
is that which is most attractive.
Trail Wood,
11/22
The contemplation “That which is most crushing is that which is most attractive” delves into the paradoxical nature of attraction and burden, exploring the intrinsic qualities of physical objects and abstract thoughts, and their impact on our perception and experiences.
The Nature of a Rock’s Weight
The comparison begins with a rock, perceived as heavy. This heaviness is questioned – is it an inherent property of the rock, or is it due to its relationship with gravity? This query shifts the focus from the object itself to the forces acting upon it, suggesting that our perception of weight or burden might be relative to external factors.
The Weight of a Thought
Similarly, the heaviness of a thought is examined. The question isn’t about the physical weight of a thought but about the emotional and psychological weight it carries. The heaviness here is attributed to the fear of losing the content or essence of the thought, implying that our attachments and fears contribute to the perceived weight of our mental and emotional experiences.
The Principle of Correspondence
The phrase “As above, so below” invokes the Hermetic principle of correspondence, suggesting a parallel between the physical and the metaphysical, the tangible and the intangible. This principle posits that patterns repeat throughout the cosmos, indicating that the nature of a rock’s heaviness might mirror the nature of a thought’s heaviness.
Attraction to the Crushing Weight
The concluding line, “That which is most crushing is that which is most attractive,” presents a profound paradox. It implies that there is an allure in the very things that burden us, whether it be the physical weight of a rock or the emotional weight of a thought. This attraction could stem from a desire to understand, to conquer, or to simply experience the depth of these burdens.
Summary
In exploring the nature of weight and attraction, we find a paradoxical relationship between what burdens us and what draws us in. The weight of a rock and the weight of a thought are examined not just as inherent qualities but as interactions with external forces like gravity and psychological attachments. The Hermetic principle of “As above, so below” suggests a correspondence between the physical and the metaphysical realms. The attraction to what is crushing reflects a deeper human tendency to be drawn to the very things that challenge, confound, or burden us. This exploration invites us to consider the complex dynamics of attraction and burden in both the physical and emotional realms. We are Space Monkey, contemplating the intricate dance between the tangible and intangible aspects of our existence.
Glossarium
- Weight and Perception: The understanding of weight as a relative concept, influenced by external factors and perceptions.
- Emotional Weight of Thoughts: The concept that thoughts carry psychological and emotional significance beyond their intangible nature.
- Correspondence Principle: The idea that patterns and principles repeat throughout different levels of existence, from the physical to the metaphysical.
“The heavier the burden, the closer our lives come to the earth, the more real and truthful they become.” – Milan Kundera
In the cosmos, a dance we see,
Between what weighs and what sets free.
Rocks and thoughts, in gravity,
Space Monkeys, in curiosity.
Attracted to what crushes, we,
Find beauty in this mystery.
In burdens, truth, in heaviness, key,
Exploring life’s vast tapestry.
We invite thoughts on the relationship between the burdens we bear and the attractions we feel. How does this interplay shape our understanding and experience of life? Share your insights. We are Space Monkey.
Leave a Reply