Journal #5

#5 Personal Philosophy

You will demonstrate your understanding of the importance of one's world view by scrutinizing your thoughts on how the world works and indentifying guiding principles for your own philosophy.

A. Give it a name

B. Identify seven to ten guiding principles: These should be clear and thoughtful – no clichés

C. Explain from where each principle developed and why it is important

A. Verdadasca

B.

1. Exploration of consciousness through meditation, isolation, altering substances, deprivation

My mom has mediated every day for 2 hours for the past 2 years and I have seen a distinct change in her nature. From stress to a more peaceful state of mind. Personally I find that when I have quality time with myself to ponder or not think at all I feel really refreshed. People need to focus on their self well being more.

2. Connecting with nature

Nature is very calming and can help the individual's well being. It is important to not forget our roots and also to leave our busy lives. When I take go hiking, camping, backpacking I feel human again.

3. Emphasis on self-learning, reading

Teenagers should be able to take their own classes that will directly help their career along with interests. School should be emphasized at a young age to be for one's self not for teachers, parents, or grades. It's important that what we do is for ourselves.

4. Limits on technology for recreational use

Even I am guilty of all these new 'toys' coming out. It is so much easier to play a game or go on Facebook than to do some meditation or read a thought provoking book.

5. Exercising and healthy dieting

America eats too much bad food. My mom always emphasized healthy eating, and I appreciate it now. Exercising I don't do so much, I wish I did though. I think it's important because in the future what I want to do will be determined by my health.

6. Accepting the meaningless of life, being honest with ourselves. Being rational.

Even if people make their own purpose of meaning to life, which is fine, I think people need to realize what they are creating and not just blindly follow it. Not denying what death is being open to talk about biological aspects of life.

7. Confidence in oneself and being alone

Inspired by Mr. Hunter S. Thompson "We are all alone, born alone, die alone, and -- in spite of True Romance magazines -- we shall all someday look back on our lives and see that, in spite of our company, we were alone the whole way. I do not say lonely -- at least, not all the time -- but essentially, and finally, alone. This is what makes your self-respect so important, and I don't see how you can respect yourself if you must look in the hearts and minds of others for your happiness.”