So here is a quote that I have though of elevendy-hundred times over the course of my life. I believe I first heard it in my thirties, and I cannot begin to calculate how many times I have referred to it when thinking about all sorts of life issues.
As our circle of knowledge expands, so does the circumference of darkness surrounding it.
— Albert Einstein
So the more we know, the more we don’t know (the darkness).
I’ve used this quote when thinking about faith, parenting four children, marriage, friendships, definitely running a company, managing personal finances and retirement planning, how to be a good son, and on and on and on. The more I know, the more I don’t know.
A daunting thought, but great fun to ponder. Continuous improvement….nothing more important.
Here’s an interesting question, Pal: Can we fistfight against that “circumference of darkness” when we broaden our definition of “we?”
When “we” means “me struggling to understand challenging concepts on my own,” I guess that circumference of darkness would get pretty damn intimidating. I’d feel overwhelmed and hopeless against its ever-expanding-ness.
But I”m not intimidated by anything anymore simply because I know that I’m never pushing against that circle by myself. While I may not understand what’s beyond me, I’m incredibly confident that someone in my network — who I can reach simply by pulling out my phone and sending a tweet — has knowledge and skills they are willing to give me.
Any of this make sense?
And hope you are well!
Bill