The necessity to stop fueling conflict (the French Olympic opening ceremony)
I observed the reactions to the Olympic opening ceremony in France yesterday on X.
Sure, the show was original, with the great talent involved, and one can salute the “balls” to put the irreverent provocation we saw in front of billions of people.
Reactions are violent and extreme, good or bad.
This goal would be significantly achieved if France's goal were to create massive social media buzz and controversy.
To achieve this PR goal, the organizers fueled conflict.
It reminded me of Krishnamurti’s words about conflict and why he’s against “systems and patterns” like religions, political parties, and even the very existence of countries.
They all create separation and, therefore, conflict.
“Human beings throughout the world live in conflict. Conflict destroys the world, in personal relationships, with nature, and with other human beings.”
Is it possible to live without conflict, only loving, being free of suffering? Krishnamurti asks.
His answer is to live without conflict and not fuel it. It starts with a deep introspection of conflict inside of ourselves. The only solution is a deep, calm, and long work within oneself, understanding that we are one with others, nature, and the universe.
I am far from perfect myself. Yesterday night was a great reminder to avoid contributing to conflict at any time, including within myself.
“To understand the immeasurable, the mind must be extraordinarily quiet, still.”
How does the mind become quiet?
Remain completely quiet as much as possible.
Only a still mind can understand another dimension of truth and beauty that cannot be put in words because it is indescribable.
We always want to be absorbed by an activity, a belief, or another person. We are like children with toys; we must always think and do something.
The first step is the last step to achieve a quiet mind, and this is meditation.
Loic - that was one of the most brilliant & succinct pieces I have read in ages. It says it all very clearly and simply. Those of us who are lucky enough to have achieved that level of inner peace are well aware of that - and I am sure are doing everything we can to help millions of others get to that same place. Thank you so much for what you are doing every day.
Great post and reminder. I recently had a conversation with my teacher along similar lines based on what's happening with american politics and media right now.
She said, "When you give something attention, you give it energy. So by giving it attention you're actually contributing to it"
For me, this has been helpful advice.