Alan Watts: 'We identify in our exerience a differentiation between what we do and what happens to us.'

We identify in our exerience a differentiation between what we do and what happens to us.

In the world of philosophical musings and contemplations, Alan Watts often stands out as a profound thinker. One of his quotes, "We identify in our experience a differentiation between what we do and what happens to us," invites us to explore the intricacies of our existence and the way we perceive the events and actions that shape our lives. This quote encapsulates the idea that we often distinguish between our own volitional actions and the external forces that impact us, highlighting the cognitive process of attributing agency to our own deeds.At first glance, the significance of this quote lies in its ability to shed light on the human tendency to assign importance and meaning to our actions while perceiving external circumstances as separate from our personal agency. It indicates a dualistic perception of the world, where we place ourselves at the center, believing that what we do is a product of our conscious making, while everything that happens to us is beyond our control. This differentiation is deeply ingrained in our thought processes and forms the basis of our understanding of cause and effect.However, delving deeper into this quote, it introduces an unexpected philosophical concept known as "interdependent origination." This Buddhist principle challenges the perceived separation between our actions and the events that transpire around us. According to interdependent origination, all phenomena are interconnected and mutually dependent, implying that nothing is isolated or existing independently.In comparing and contrasting Watts' quote with the concept of interdependent origination, paradoxes and profound insights arise. By acknowledging the interdependent nature of existence, we realize that what we do is intricately linked to what happens to us. Our actions, intentions, and attitudes ripple through the interconnected matrix of life, influencing and shaping the events, circumstances, and experiences that unfold. In this light, the differentiation between our actions and external occurrences loses its rigidity, emphasizing the intricate dance between our personal agency and the interconnected web of causality.Moreover, grasping the implications of interdependent origination challenges the perception of a fixed, separate self. It emphasizes the fluidity and interconnectedness of all phenomena, eroding the boundaries between "me" and "the world." This shift in perspective invites a profound reconsideration of our identity and our relationship with the universe. Rather than viewing ourselves as isolated entities navigating a separate reality, we begin to see ourselves as integral parts of a vast and interconnected tapestry.The quote by Alan Watts, with its nuanced exploration of the differentiation between our actions and the events that transpire, draws our attention to the ways in which we attribute agency to our deeds. It encapsulates the common tendency to perceive ourselves as separate from the world, offering an invitation to delve into the concept of interdependent origination. This Buddhist principle challenges our dualistic notions and propels us towards a more holistic understanding, where the boundaries between our actions and external circumstances blur, giving rise to a deeper awareness of our interconnectedness with all of existence. May this contemplation inspire us to reframe our perspective and awaken a sense of unity within the tapestry of life.