Replying to LO28674 --
John,
The Rilke quote won't do much for the Prozac movement. The idea that
sadness can be something to be embraced is not how our culture believes
life can be lived. Similarly, being contemplative is not part of the
internet age. Multi-tasking allow one not to concentrate rather than
concentrate on many things.
I think all of us in the learning and change business are somewhat
marginalized by the nature of the effort. We are the mid-wives of change
but we don't have the child nor do we live with the child. Being a
consultant and traveling means that people relate to you for your
empowering persona no matter how grounded and authentic.
On the whole, I believe that depression is a condition that can and should
be treated. However, moments of insight brought on by disappointments or,
perhaps, the sense of loss that can strike one in middle age are both part
of finally gain some wisdom. I am probably a more caring person as a
result of my own dark thoughts and demons.
However, I still learn, am engaged, and believe that I only have to define
myself rather than live up to others' concept of me.
I believe that the people who can make themselves happy by changing the
channel on TV aren't happy but are easily diverted.
Roger Berg
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