On Page 126 of his book, The Passionate State of Mind, Eric Hoffer writes three entries which I quote and then comment on.
Hoffer: “ 232
We do not really feel grateful toward those who make our dreams come true; they ruin our dreams.”
My response: The less developed the sane adult of average intelligence is, in terms of coming to know herself, to be in touch with God and reality, and to live the individuating lifestyle, the mode of high existing whereat the individual’s unity of apperception, or self-consciousness as an integrated psyche, the more will she be existing in a world of fantasy, deceit, lies and dreams. Though that crude state of personal consciousness or awakeness is painful and unfulfilling, it is also comforting and requires no effort, no need for the slacker to rouse herself and get moving.
When someone jolts us into awakeness, gets us going, and helps us begin to build a prosperous, responsible, adult life, part of us resents them for smashing our comforting dreams, our beloved life of fantasy and little consequence or exertion.
Hoffer: “ 233
Without a sense of proportion there can be neither good taste nor genuine intelligence, nor perhaps moral integrity.”
My response: This is perhaps the clearest, most poignant definition of the ethical law of moderation that has ever been written. Hoffer the moderate nails it again.
Hoffer: “ 234
Some watch others to learn what to do and some watch to learn what not to do.”
My response: I have often remarked to my boss and coworkers that a smart, effective employee knows what to do (show up, behave, do the work, and watch one’s mouth and temper) but also knows what not to do, to stay out of trouble.
It might be that a wise, with-it teenager would watch others to learn what to do and what not do, and, thus builds a popular, successful life, minimizing getting into trouble or looking for trouble.
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