I once read a poem about a decade ago which I have held on with sentiments.
Later on, I had to compose one myself inspired by the original poem, along with Dryden’s very inspiring work, "Spanish Friar". The theme of the poem borders on the apparent contentment that is reposed on insane people. There seems to be a sort of complacence and relaxedness in most mad individuals that one begins to wonder whether Man in the ordinary sane state is not the one that is mad, really mad. Here is my poem that I wish to share with you:
THE MAD MAN
“There is pleasure sure,
in being mad, which none but madmen know”
-Dryden, Spanish Friar
Lazily he walked down the road,
His destination unknown
Dancing to a non-existent music
How very much he looks
His hair though rough
‘Tis free from dandruff
His skin a stranger to water
Does he complain of scabies?
A’ah he e’en eats unripe and overripe mangoes
Does he complain of dysentery?
Perturbed not in mind
During the airs of trouble
For me, ‘tis paragon of contentment
But people choose to call him MAD
- Kingsley Idiagbor
Kindly note that in submitting this poem (unedited) for your consideration, I am not endorsing insanity or anything of such but one is pointing out that we, humans, are too much in a hurry and worry so much about so many things about nothing. We should assume the complacence in children and in apparent mad people and ask yourself this question that is credited to one-time US President Jefferson, “Will this issue I am worried about be relevant in the next fifty years?”. If it is not, then, Fratres and Sorores, it is not really worth the worry, or is it?
Having lost some years of my life taking care of me Mother, and having some phychic part of me ripped away with her demise; I am now about to enjoy an inheritance I never thought possible. Only because my parents thought to become property owners some 50 years ago. It was NOT easy to make mortgage payments back then.
Now I am too young to retire and feel like making up for lost years. But if I live to be as old as me Mother I will live LONG past my inheritance and die broke unless I likewise invest wisely.
This applies to money as well to health - mental and physical. There are no children in my family and none to care for me in my old age.
In that respect I can definely say it pays to fret and agonize a bit. I will run scared untill I am settled down to an economic routine. I cry for my deceased pets and want no more if I can't guarantee them life long care.
I see many people around me: victims or perpetuators of irresponsibility. Arnt kids inevitable? Isnt the system made to take advantage of? The answere is always thus: let your conscience be your guild. I am proud of what I have accomplished and applaud the others likewise. Because I know it entailed much pain, agony and self doubt and yes: self sacrifice before it was all done ...
That is an interesting poem which causes one to reflect. In my own journey through life, after many fruitless hours wasted, worrying about things, there comes a point when you start to realize what is important, and what does not mean squat. I still worry, but with a bit more perspective. When I am losing my cool, it is helpful for me to clear my mind through attunement with God, and become receptive to Divine love, and in turn pass on that love to others in need.
love to all,
Gary
Gary,
The point you raised is very important. In recommending a relaxed approach to our problems, one is not suggesting that we should adopt a laissez-faire or nonchalant attitude either, to very serious issues. What a mystic should avoid, in my own opinion is the type of thinking that goes in "circles" and getting one nowhere. I mean any anxiety that can not be backed up by action or prudent behaviour is dangerous.
I support the attunement with God, and becoming receptive to Divine love method and in addition learning to let go and let the Cosmic mind take over. I have personally found this technique to be very effective. Again, be relaxed. Also see the Christian Bible (Philippians 4:4)