dependent origination & non-substantiality versus the reifying quality of language

Judy Napangardi Watson

The Buddha taught that the nature of dependent origination is not extinguished or produced, it does not exist momentarily or eternally, it is not single or compound, it does not come and does not go; it transcends the vanity of words and is the ultimate bliss.

Nagarjuna, Mulamadhyamakakarika (The Middle Doctrine)

interaction with nature

[The quality of] interactions between humans and the world around us can first be understood to depend on the subjective qualities of the person. It is through our various interactions with the world that we develop in a fully balanced manner. That being the case, the world around us, nature in particular, can truly be our enlightener, our guide, our consoler. Forging a variety of interactions with nature is essential in enabling us to meet and deal with the limitless vicissitudes of life. Our happiness in life can indeed be said to be proportional to the extent and intimacy of our interaction with nature.

Makiguchi, Tsunesaburo. 2002. A Geography of Human Life. Trans. by Katsusuke Hori et al. Ed. by Dayle M. Bethel. San Francisco: Caddo Gap Press.