I really loved reading this post. I had never heard of Jiddu Krishnamurti, and I haven't read much of Bohm (including the book you recommended), and these are now the next on my reading list. My introduction to these ideas is through taoist philosophy, which I am much more familiar with. So much of your story resonated with my own, and I'm excited to read what seems like an update to those ancient writings.
I'm really curious to hear how this writing has impacted your life. What has changed for you? What parts of this thinking do you find difficult to adopt?
Thanks. I was reading some Taoist philosophy too, right before I found this, and am slightly familiar with it. The "Way" being unfathomable and absolute appealed to me and does seem similar to what K and Bohm said. I liked the story about the butcher (Cook Ding?) who almost never has to sharpen his knife.
Well ... if I had to struggle to adopt an idea, that would mean I'm trying to just accept it (without having the insight myself), and I don't want to do that with these people's ideas or anyone's. That said, I agree with the main points I cover here, and have experienced the increase in energy and loss of fear that K describes. I now feel like my interests are more aligned and consistent than ever, and there's almost no anxiety about the future and personal security.
I think our egos and identities are not what we think they are, and I want that to come through in my life and actions, but sometimes I don't know what to do. There are so many options in life and it's hard to see how to be selfless and effective at the same time in each situation.
I especially hate seeing people suffer from anxiety about the future and feeling like I can't get them to stop, no matter what I say. :(
I would love to read your opinion on this stuff and thoughts on Taoism! What is your story?