For want of a nail the shoe was lost.
For want of a shoe the horse was lost.
For want of a horse the rider was lost.
For want of a rider the message was lost.
For want of a message the battle was lost.
For want of a battle the kingdom was lost.
And all for the want of a horseshoe nail.
The proverb dates back to the late 14th century in John Gower's poem "Confessio Amantis". Its dissemination through popular culture can likely be attributed to Ben Franklin’s inclusion within “Poor Richard’s Almanack.”
It’s a cautionary tale regarding the merits of paying attention to the small details. Neglect of which can lead to significant and often disastrous outcomes.
Wise counsel indeed.
As it relates to progressing on a spiritual passage, we’ll take some poetic license by compressing the verses and inverting the primary noun’s intention:
For want of a self, the kingdom was lost.
The desire for individuality, an identity, a me is what led to the disintegration of oneness. Not in reality, but certainly in our experience.
As we read in A Course in Miracles:
Into eternity, where all is one, there crept a tiny, mad idea of [separation].
An idea of something distinct and apart from oneness. Just an idea. Yet in taking this idea seriously we make an entire universe to uphold the notion. Thus, “the body’s serial adventures, from the time of birth to dying are the theme of [all who believe this is real].“
For want of a self, the kingdom of perfect peace was lost.
The awakening journey leads us through a transcendence of self. Not a denial of nor a triumph over. Rather, a gentle subsiding of the ego’s grip on grievances. The conclusion of which a return to the source we never left. “Not one note in Heaven’s song was missed.”
By simply paying attention to the little details.
Join me in Thursday’s class where we’ll explore the “want of self” and practices we can undertake to rapidly advance on the path to peace. I look forward to seeing you then.