‘Spiritual Laws study day’

     

The living Heaven thy prayers respect, 

House at once and architect,

Quarrying man’s rejected hours,

Builds therewith eternal towers;

Sole and self-commanded works,

Fears not undermining days,

Grows by decays,

And, by the famous might that lurks

In reaction and recoil,

Makes flame to freeze, and ice to boil;

Forging, through swart arms of Offence,

The silver seat of Innocence.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Spiritual Laws

1841

The School of Practical Philosophy will host another Emerson Study Day next month—highly recommended!—to focus on excerpts of Emerson’s “Spiritual Laws.” From the publicity:

Emerson Study Day

School of Practical Philosophy

Sunday, March 11

8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

12 East 79th Street

Register here.

Join us in an exploration of the spiritual and intellectual legacy of America’s great philosopher and teacher, Ralph Waldo Emerson. Drawing on the wisdom of Plato and the Eastern traditions, Emerson knew from direct experience and observation that unity is the true reality. He spoke of “one mind common to all,” and “one soul which animates all things.” His affirmation of Unity was total, and he encouraged people to discover this for themselves.

We shall study selected passages from “Spiritual Laws.” This essay offers guidance in understanding the natural laws of the Creation. When we are in alignment with these laws, the result is harmony with the universe, and the potential for realizing our full stature.

From the essay:

“A little consideration of what takes place around us every day would show us, that a higher law than that of our will regulates events; that our painful labors are unnecessary, and fruitless; that only in our easy, simple, and spontaneous action are we strong, and by contenting ourselves with obedience we become divine.”

All are welcome. No prior study of Emerson is required.

8:30 a.m. – Sign in. Coffee available.
9 a.m. – Brief introduction followed by study sessions in small groups.

Fee: $30 – Includes a light brunch and printed material.