Roger Housden on Letting Go and Embracing Life’s Flow
The point about poetry, I think, is that it speaks truth in a universal language.
Feeling weighed down by life's endless struggles? In this episode of 'The One You Feed', Eric Zimmer chats with Roger Housden, an influential author and founder of The Open Gate. Known for bringing the teachings of Ram Dass and Thich Nhat Hanh to Europe, Roger dives deep into his book 'Dropping the Struggle: Seven Ways to Love the Life You Have'. He shares how letting go of the constant battle for perfection can lead to a more fulfilling life.
Roger reflects on the parable of the two wolves, a recurring theme in the podcast, which teaches that the wolf representing kindness, bravery, and love thrives when fed, while the wolf embodying greed, hatred, and fear diminishes. This conversation explores how we can consciously choose which wolf to nurture. Poetry, Roger believes, has the power to touch parts of us that logic can't reach.
He discusses how poetry can reveal deeper truths about our human experience and offer solace during tough times. He also touches on Nietzsche's concept of 'amor fati'—loving one's fate—and explains how accepting life as it is can be liberating. The episode also delves into the importance of leisurely activities that make time feel expansive and connect us to a timeless state. Roger emphasizes the value of 'heart mind' and 'wordless knowing' as essential elements for truly understanding oneself.
This engaging conversation is filled with wisdom and practical advice, offering listeners new ways to drop their struggles and embrace life with open arms.