In the seventh grade, a new friend and I seemed to become aware at around the same time of how ironic and paradoxical the universe is, and we reveled in its absurdity, sometimes saying things in a sing-song exaggerated voice like, "Oh, what a cute little puppy; let's kill it" and then laughing uproariously at the utter ridiculousness of such a statement (and you, dear reader, may be thinking at this point----oh, my, these were future serial killers!). Fortunately, we were both merely budding English majors, but, to me, walking the tightrope of paradox continues to be one of the most interesting aspects of negotiating this life we are tasked to figure out how to live (as we simultaneously go about the business of dying).
Some of my favorite paradoxes include:
Everyone is incomparably unique. We are all alike.
Seek and you shall find. Desire is suffering.
Don't hide your light. Don't brag.
Become as a little child. Learn as much as you can.
The kingdom of heaven is within you.
And the silly seriousness of our animal friends embody a similar feeling. . .
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| Mauser (our dear furniture-shredder), napping |
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| Kipper, trying to nap, as his "mom" tries a halloween mask on him |
