Mark Matousek, author of Lessons From an American Stoic: How Emerson Can Change Your Life, is interviewed by April Gornick at The Church in Sag Harbor, NY, October 2023.
41:00 - My biggest mistake was just carrying on as if nothing happened, why have I done that all my life? I want to remember and refresh the awe that I felt in those deep spiritual moments of epiphany! Those moments were miracles! God, nature, awe, so much! I'm waking up now half way through my life! Gratitude for life is everything
It baffles me that Emerson is not more elevated as an American Icon......I believe this author is correct that Emerson offers wisdom that is needed in today's world. Life is not about being concerned about how you or others look on Facebook, it is about knowing who you really are and living accordingly, in a way that may or may not look "successful" to others. I've followed (imperfectly) the Emerson code for many years, living from the inside out, and living a life quite fascinating to me, even with the deep downs and super highs...my experiences, not borrowed from anyone else. Emerson asks you not to sell out to anyone or any dogma, to travel the road that has your name on it. (one more thought....Emerson, to me, was a liberator of thought, of creativity....he wanted to help awaken you, not get you to agree with him or follow him, but by being vigorously honest and creative himself, inspiring us to be that way ourselves, in our own way.....which can lead to a very private life for some, and make joining groups difficult for some)
Why does this interview person disregard the author's representation of his book by constantly imposing her silly comments thereby undermining and disrespectful of the author's take on his own work.
41:00 - My biggest mistake was just carrying on as if nothing happened, why have I done that all my life? I want to remember and refresh the awe that I felt in those deep spiritual moments of epiphany! Those moments were miracles! God, nature, awe, so much! I'm waking up now half way through my life! Gratitude for life is everything
It baffles me that Emerson is not more elevated as an American Icon......I believe this author is correct that Emerson offers wisdom that is needed in today's world. Life is not about being concerned about how you or others look on Facebook, it is about knowing who you really are and living accordingly, in a way that may or may not look "successful" to others. I've followed (imperfectly) the Emerson code for many years, living from the inside out, and living a life quite fascinating to me, even with the deep downs and super highs...my experiences, not borrowed from anyone else. Emerson asks you not to sell out to anyone or any dogma, to travel the road that has your name on it.
(one more thought....Emerson, to me, was a liberator of thought, of creativity....he wanted to help awaken you, not get you to agree with him or follow him, but by being vigorously honest and creative himself, inspiring us to be that way ourselves, in our own way.....which can lead to a very private life for some, and make joining groups difficult for some)
I could not agree more! Thanks for your thoughtful comment. Mark
My teacher Joel S Gokdsmith who wrote The Infinite Way liked Emerson ❤
Why does this interview person disregard the author's representation of his book by constantly imposing her silly comments thereby undermining and disrespectful of the author's take on his own work.