Appropriate Rational Behaviour & How we Actually Live

     We've all scoffed at older people who insisted on doing things "the way they've always done it", disregarding the fact that it wasn't working. A popular definition of madness is "doing more of what doesn't work, yet expecting a different result." So what do we see objectively, that (some) "old folks" can't seem to?
     We clearly see that (some) old methods fail to address current problems; that continuing to use these is irrational; and that there's emotional attachment to or identification with these (now useless) methods.
     Interestingly, most of us - particularly physicians, dentists, surgeons - consider ourselves highly rational, scientific, "evidence-based." At the same time, we insist on doing things "the way we always do it", and avoid major aspects of life in which we have minimal training or competence. To become a more balanced, whole person, it's reasonable to actively train in areas in which we're deficient. Instead, don't we work more ("do more of what doesn't work"), to the exclusion of family, friends, hobbies, physical fitness, and a meaningful spiritual life?
     It's so easy to become completely identified with and emotionally attached to our work role in society. It's entirely our choice whether or not we balance our lives.

This Summer by Alexandrya Eaton   http://www.fogforestgallery.ca/exhibition.html