A myth is an image in terms of which we try to make sense of the world.

What did Alan Watts mean by:

A myth is an image in terms of which we try to make sense of the world.

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This quote suggests that myths are symbolic representations through which we interpret and understand the world around us. They are not just stories or legends from ancient times, but rather, they are constructs or frameworks that we use to give meaning to our experiences and to make sense of the world’s complexities. A myth, in this context, is not necessarily a falsehood, but a lens through which we view reality.

Myths can be cultural, religious, or personal. They can be narratives we’ve been told since childhood, societal norms we’ve internalized, or personal beliefs we’ve developed over time. These myths shape our perceptions and guide our actions. They provide a sense of order and help us navigate through life’s uncertainties.

In today’s world, this idea is still very relevant. For instance, consider the various narratives or “myths” that different societies or cultures hold about success. In some cultures, success might be defined in terms of wealth and material possessions, while in others, it might be about achieving a sense of balance and harmony in life. These myths influence how individuals in those societies behave and make decisions.

In terms of personal development, understanding the role of myths can be very empowering. It encourages us to examine the myths that we’ve been holding onto and to question whether they are serving us or holding us back. For instance, if we’ve been brought up to believe that we need to work tirelessly to be considered successful, this myth might be causing us unnecessary stress and dissatisfaction. By recognizing this, we can choose to let go of this myth and redefine success on our own terms.

Furthermore, we can also create our own empowering myths. For instance, we can choose to believe in the myth that we are capable of achieving anything we set our minds to. This myth can motivate us to pursue our goals with determination and resilience. In this way, myths can be powerful tools for personal growth and transformation.

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