Enlightenment
In intellectual circles it may be common to discuss topics such as 'nature vs nurture' and delve into how experiences and the mind shapes an individual and the role the environment plays in that. It is less common to break such discussions down from the simple perspective of an individual who can say for instance: 'I experienced this emotion and since I studied this seemingly unrelated subject, I realize it can actually help individuals who have also experienced the emotion better understand what they are going through.'
This documentary shares the perspectives of several professionals who share their experiences. It is an interesting exploration into why we are the way we are and why we feel the things we do. For anyone feeling a bit directionless in life, you may feel comforted to know that planes are off course 90% of the time. This fact might just convince you that if you get your insides right then the outside will fall into place. The explorations are compelling and will get you to stop and acknowledge what lies within your control and what doesn't. You will get exposure to academic study of what is generally perceived as magic.
If you are curious about how it works you will find that the takeaways are not as groundbreaking as you might think. It would reinforce simple suggestions you may typically overlook including: write down your goals, meditate, believe in yourself, think positively, be grateful, get to know yourself.
Of course, the presenters also highlight that there will be challenges to effectively using the principles. Indiscipline, lack of action, and thinking that things will come to you are some barriers. Ultimately the only failure is in quitting.
There is also an acknowledgement that modern materialism and the substance of things we see in reality evolved from historic traditions we do not understand in the same way they were practised. For instance astrology preceded astronomy, herbalism preceded pharmaceuticals and alchemy preceded chemistry.
You may even find yourself questioning the true nature of reality and what percentage of the scientific nature of reality do we really "understand". In the constant search for satisfaction and success are we getting closer to what we desire or simply making it more difficult to achieve?
Is external validation and gratification more lasting than internal satisfaction? What is enlightenment really and why is it that it is so difficult to explain to others? Is it possible that the language of enlightenment is not in words or explanations but in the perception of how connected everything is? While the answers given are not definitive, they are worth exploring.
Directed by: Anthony Chene
