From Architect to Archeologist

Before deciding on computer engineering for my university study, I briefly considered the path of architecture. Its polish, precision, and detailed planning aspects appealed to my spatial senses.

Accomplished architects transform ideas into action, meticulously orchestrating multiple layers of requirement. Ideally presenting a finished product pleasing to stakeholders. Much like what we call “life.”

We immerse ourselves in the pursuit of happiness, attempting to blueprint the future around some preconceived notion of success. Whether that’s improved health, increased income, or more satisfying relationships - the external structures of our world perpetually teeter in turbulence. All the while we strive to meet expectations of others, particularly certain others. Unquestionably knowing it will all soon crumble.

But might there be another path?

Shifting focus from planning to observing we deconstruct conditioned designs, becoming archeologists of our own existence. This journey is one of undoing, gently removing layers of accumulated dirt.

With patience and presence we excavate the depths of sorrow. Delicate sweeps of soft-bristled brushes tenderly unearth all artifacts of anguish. As Socrates wisely counseled, perfection is within. Dialectic inquiry lifts the veil of ignorance, disclosing the transcendent light of love.

All experience is of our own making. “The secret of salvation is but this: that you are doing this unto yourself.” As we further learn in A Course in Miracles:

Perception is a choice, revealing yourself to you as you would have you be. (T-25.I.3)

This realization dissolves external markers of achievement, liberating us from the burdens of attachment. We simply need look, nothing more.

Join me in Thursday’s class where we’ll explore this shift from architect to archeologist, and the concomitant joy that naturally ensues. I look forward to seeing you then.