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On Beingness and Technology

I think about the potential of technology often. Whether it be artificial intelligence or blockchain, we are facing new found possibilities.

The efficiency is stunning, and the certainty is reassuring — and we have the possibility to try to think with the logic of technology — in a way — we can become reductionists: a belief that each piece serves a specific utility and no more — that the sum of parts is not greater than the whole.

Logical algorithms must assume a complete logical breakdown of systems, while humans can account for the subtle. If a mechanic takes a part a car to each of its pieces, and puts it back together, then it will likely drive again. If the best surgeon takes an animal and tries to dissect it, and put it back together, then obviously it will not live. There is a difference.

Human beings that break problems into their individual pieces and logically pieces them together — this is what computers do, not humans.

To not lose ourselves to technology, we must practice and honor that which is human: wisdom, love and compassion.

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The Formative Faiths and Stories that Raised Me

As a child, I was taught and raised with a joy and respect for each faith. My parents would tell me stories about all faiths, and their folklore.

I attribute this to my father’s joy of storytelling, but more than that I think there was a profound respect and belief that my parents and even grandparents had in other faiths. Perhaps, it was because my mom’s side of the family was raised in South Africa in neighborhoods relegated to immigrants. With Jewish, Christian and Muslim neighbors in a new country, I imagine our neighbors became our community. I have heard countless stories about the grouped helped one and other.

On my Dad’s side, I imagine my father being educated in New Zealand and also his love of poetry ensured my sister and I would be exposed to all faiths.

I never thought about it consciously, but I am one of many faiths (not God per second, but an exploration of the human condition). Sarika was raised Jain. I was raised Hindu. We both practice Buddhism, but also have strong affinities to anything sacred.

Yesterday, we had the joy of watching Walk With Me, a documentary about Plum Village and the Thich Naht Hanh at the Rubin Museum.

Today, we had the joy of going to Riverside Church to enjoy the weekly service.

I am grateful for the role and influence of the many faiths and beliefs that have created my personal narrative and those Sarika and I hope to pass to Lila.