The Quest for the promised land - And the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom he had formed. - Genesis 2:8

The search for paradise has plagued man ever since his legendary expulsion from the Garden of Eden. Man has devoted many hours to improving his world and in search of "promised lands" and "the good life" to regain his paradise. People who avidly pursue these ideals are called visionaries or utopians.

The dictionary, and society, are very negative when defining utopia. Literally utopia means "no where" or "no place." With an insight into life, and an understanding of utopian idealism, the definition can be changed to any place or anywhere. Utopian thought is often identified with idle dreaming, rather than creative thought for a better world. My philosophic journey will explore the possibilities of utopian thought, rather than simply dismiss the ideas as idle craziness. After all, being a little bit crazy is what keeps me sane.

The Dream: Peace on Earth

Shambhala: The Sacred Path of the Warrior

The Shambhala teachings are founded on the premise that there is basic wisdom that can help to solve the world's problems. This wisdom does not belong to any one culture or religion, nor does it come only from the West of East. Rather, it is a tradition of human warriorship that has existed in many cultures at many times throughout history.

... it is not important to determine whether the kingdom of Shambhala is fact or fiction. Instead we should appreciate and emulate the ideal of an enlightened society that it represents.

..... Chogyam Trungpa

Thinking about Utopia

Questy visits Independence