Allen, Nathan, and The Road to Santiago

August, 18, 2006
Leaving for Spain in less than one month I wanted to write down a few of my values. I am curious to see whether by the time we arrive in Santiago, these will change, become obsolete, deepen, expand, etc.

1. Life is short and constantly changing. No two moments are ever the same (Heraclites) even though it sometimes feels like it. Remembering this, I am more present, more loving, and more attentive to what is in front of me. I am more thankful for the people, actions, places, and things that nourish my life.

2. Education. Not for passing tests and grabbing degrees, but for discovering an individual’s needs, talents, and developing his/her potential for not only economic success, but for happiness of the soul, personal fulfillment, civic life, family life, and meaningful work.

3. Humor and Inquiry. Sometimes I get emotional, anxious, and worried. I’ll deal with this by remembering that everything can be made into something funny. By staying aware that some feelings do not make the whole person, and recognizing the negative emotions within me. I will gently question the source, (e.g., why do I feel this way? What’s going on in this area of my life that is making me feel anxious, afraid, etc.) I will continue to question until genuine insight appears. I will take action in response to the insight.

4. Dogma really bothers me. Unscientific belief, meaning for me, belief that is not based on a well reasoned process, to a large extent proven, tested, genuinely examined, such beliefs, specifically when they are used by the powerful to oppress the powerless, make me sad and angry. I will work to dispel superstitious thinking, lies, and all things reactionary.

5. Balance. Making the time and doing work for the development of my values is well worth it. I don’t just value work/career, or just value my romantic partner(Natasha), or just value plans for the future, or just value this present moment, or just value health( for me it’s Aikido, and bicycling) or just value study, or just value...
What I really value is the tremendous effort it takes to connect all of these diverse realities harmoniously, and sometimes the reality is that it’s not so harmonious. But that is my goal, to make my life into a well-balanced wheel, my heart and mind the hub, each value a spoke. (The ‘inner’ tube is light and full of air, the tire is thick, tough, and can take the long ride.)

6. Integrity. I will be honest, straightforward, and when I make a mistake, I’ll correct it. If I’m challenged, I’ll take a good hard look at myself, at the situation, and I will do my best to take the most thoughtful course of action. I will not rationalize my mistakes; I will not stress myself for a defense that cannot stand on its own.

7. Hard Work. During normal work hours (8-6pm) for the most part, I shall work constantly, be active, both physically and mentally. That means concentration and plenty of meditation ( e.g. moments to stop. Breathe. Stretch. Take a walk. Relax the thinking mechanism, live from the spirit!)

8. Community. If I’m not for myself, who will be? If I’m only for myself, what kind of man am I? If not now, when? (Rabbi Hillel) I will do my best to see other people as sisters and brothers. I will do my best to reflect on whom they are, where they are coming from, (their thoughts, feelings, ways of seeing, etc.) I will make room for the ordinary as well as the extraordinary. I will make room for the feelings of people. I will not judge people.

9. Health. Life can be miserably hard. It helps when your body is strong and when your mind is clear and balanced.

10. Endurance. I once held a dish with the inscription on the bottom side, “Endure Furth.” Furth is my mother’s maiden name, was my grandpa Al’s name. To survive life’s challenges with your dignity not but a little harmed, that means everything.

Allen Korenstein (Warrior Poet)