Thanks for your post. I had no idea these two brilliant, thoughtful writers had ever met, much less recorded a conversation in print. Several books and references that I’ll definitely explore!
But more than this, thanks for addressing the need for conversations across any and all divides. It’s our only way out of the multiple messes confronting humans and our ecosystem.
As a reader who also does some editing, your phrase describing bell hooks as “dabbling seriously” in Buddhism felt jarring and, to be honest, dismissive, which I don’t at all associate with your writing. It did however lead me to investigate more about her, so thanks!, and now I’d disagree that she was dabbling. I’d say she was quite serious, however it is that she integrated Buddhism into her life.
Thanks again for your thoughtful writing. May the new year treat you well!
Thank you for your comment, Laura. I appreciate your close reading--and challenging me. I didn't mean to be dismissive of hooks' spiritual practices. I'm sorry it came across that way with my turn of phrase. I am not steeped in hooks' work, especially that part of it, and I breezed by it too casually. I can see how it reads that way.
When I think of dabbling, I think of trying, experimenting, seeing what works, adjusting, doing some more. Her commitment seems to have included that but also went beyond it. Sorry the phrase stood out, but I'm glad you learned more and reached out! Thanks for being such a great, consistent subscriber.
I feel like a real novice reading your work! I am learning as I go and I appreciate the opportunity! Thanks!
I'm glad you are along for the ride, Bonnie! Being a novice is a great place to be--opportunities for learning around every corner.
Hi Adam -
Thanks for your post. I had no idea these two brilliant, thoughtful writers had ever met, much less recorded a conversation in print. Several books and references that I’ll definitely explore!
But more than this, thanks for addressing the need for conversations across any and all divides. It’s our only way out of the multiple messes confronting humans and our ecosystem.
As a reader who also does some editing, your phrase describing bell hooks as “dabbling seriously” in Buddhism felt jarring and, to be honest, dismissive, which I don’t at all associate with your writing. It did however lead me to investigate more about her, so thanks!, and now I’d disagree that she was dabbling. I’d say she was quite serious, however it is that she integrated Buddhism into her life.
Thanks again for your thoughtful writing. May the new year treat you well!
Thank you for your comment, Laura. I appreciate your close reading--and challenging me. I didn't mean to be dismissive of hooks' spiritual practices. I'm sorry it came across that way with my turn of phrase. I am not steeped in hooks' work, especially that part of it, and I breezed by it too casually. I can see how it reads that way.
When I think of dabbling, I think of trying, experimenting, seeing what works, adjusting, doing some more. Her commitment seems to have included that but also went beyond it. Sorry the phrase stood out, but I'm glad you learned more and reached out! Thanks for being such a great, consistent subscriber.