The Headless Ones
Posted on 14 August 2009 by Stenberg-Tendys W.L. in Humour
Philosopher Douglas E. Harding pioneered a method of self-inquiry, which is designed to show you who you really are. Through a series of experiments Harding encourages you to direct your attention inwards to your centre.
He claims that one minute of this kind of experimentation will achieve more than years of reading, lecture-attending, thinking, ritual observances and passive mediation of the traditional sort. Harding called it the ‘Headless Way’.
How do you see yourself?
Harding says the major cause of stress is seeing yourself as others see you. He recommends looking at only what you can see inside yourself, as a way to relieve the stress.
Most people draw a self-portrait by looking in the mirror. Wrong, says Harding. A true self-portrait is only what you see of yourself when you look down, as is demonstrated by Harding’s self-portrait. A mirror image is the way others see you.
Harding’s work makes interesting reading, particular if you are in the mood for some light and amusing reading, which can be thought provoking.
Perhaps these people have been reading some of Harding’s work and have taken it more seriously than need be.
Where have all the heads gone?
Maybe the 80 year old Harding is an advocate of the saying, ‘Pull your head in and mind your own business’.
