Navigating Chaotic Times

VIR: I believe there are currents in the universe. Eddies and tides that pull us one way or the other. Some we have to fight, some we have to embrace.

Babylon 5, “The Geometry of Shadows”, s2:ep3

I really liked this quote from the science-fiction classic Babylon 5 (which I’ve been re-watching lately)¹ because it speaks to the sense that many things happen outside our control. Instead, we’re constantly pulled along by other forces, and some of these can be beneficial, others can be harmful, and simply just pull us in unexpected directions. Some of these currents are very strong and difficult to resist, some are barely noticeable until we look back.

Further, we don’t always know where these currents will take us. So, there’s always danger in choosing one course or another.

DRAAL: What’s the third principle of sentient life? It is the capacity for self-sacrifice. The ability to override evolution and self-preservation…

Babylon 5, “A Voice in the Wilderness (part 1)”, s1:ep18

I think intuition is not enough to navigate this mess. One also needs a set of independent principles to help guide one, and that’s where things like the five precepts of Buddhism really come in handy. It’s not a list of “don’t do” things, it is a list of training rules to help strengthen the mind, and benefit others.

Also, clarity of mind.

Rather than giving in to self-doubt, stay cool, and take things one step at a time, navigate eddies and currents, but also don’t lose your goodwill towards others.

At least, that’s how I see it. 😏

Namu Shakamuni Butsu

¹ Speaking of Shadows…