Admitting to be an idiot is an advantage...?

I am at a time of my life, in which I strongly prefer the "classics" in literature. History and philosophy also fascinate me, despite the challenges I often have to understand them. I don't mean to brag or express how big of an "intellectual" I am, but maybe I want to understand the old works before I could enjoy what is created in our contemporary time.

One of the echoes of ancient times which often comes back to my mind is Socrates- he not only had a life worth contemplating but also gave us many gifts, one being "I know that I know nothing". It struck me the first time I heard it... there is something beyond admitting that you lack the skills, knowledge or capabilities to do a certain task. I realized it by following my passion in the field of psychology- no matter how much I read, investigate and explore, the more I realize how endless the human psyche and soul are. It's both a humbling process and yet one of endless inspiration that encourages curiosity and wondering. We may very well know the view of a sunset, yet always gasp at the beauty it presents. Admitting that you know nothing is allowing yourself to forget about the fear of making mistakes (or "looking like an idiot") and engulfing yourself in the beauty of endlessness. In this way any experience becomes valuable, every living creature contains that eternity. You no longer learn because you want to control, but you learn, because you love to learn.

In the Roman Empire, when generals return from a war expedition, aside from the well-deserved welcoming applauses and cheers from the people, there were a few who stood by the generals, whispering "Memento mori"- remember, that you will die. In the same way, I remind myself that I know nothing, which allows me to rediscover the world, to see it in a new light every day, to be less judgemental! I could easily bolster my ego and say that I am a wonderful psychologist, and quickly start evaluating every person I see on the streets (I have done it without needing to qualify as a psychologist... oops) making it meaningless to contact them (since I already deducted what kind of people they are in my head), but that only would limit the pleasure and knowledge I could receive from them.

But doesn't it sound frightening that you would always have to explore something endless...doesn't that remind us of Sisyphus? It would be if our goal is to understand in order to control and conquer....however, each of us contains this endless universe in ourselves. Nobody is dispensable, everyone is a unique beholder of the magical inspiration that could potentially make our lives way more meaningful. Yes, you may not receive the title "master of..." but each second of the experience would be worth it!

This could be easily understood by artists, writers, actors, and musicians but it is applicable for every part of life- math, chemistry, love, relationships, friendships, God, nature, languages, etc. Passion in what you do is the way.

I humbly accept the fact that I know nothing, for the knowledge itself is hidden in every rock, fly, plant, smile, eyes, person, book and landscape...and I would have the opportunity to gain that experience and love from them, only if I accept their unique and eternal value that reaches beyond any understanding I could ever achieve.

P.S: I do not claim this post to be a new moral height or a way to make life meaningful, rather I share my thoughts with the wide media, which is a new experience to me! I would like to be accepted as an enthusiastic student, rather than as the patronising and all-wise teacher.