This quote suggests that the inability to accept or understand mystical experiences goes beyond a mere intellectual limitation. Mystical experiences often refer to moments of profound insight or spiritual awakening that transcend ordinary understanding. They are deeply personal, often transformative experiences that can’t be easily explained or quantified.
When Watts refers to an “intellectual handicap,” he’s implying that a purely logical or analytical approach to life is limiting. It’s like trying to understand the world using only half of your potential tools. The intellect is important, but it’s not everything. It’s just one way of perceiving and making sense of the world. Mystical experiences, on the other hand, tap into a deeper, more intuitive understanding of life and the universe, one that transcends the limits of rational thought.
In today’s world, this idea is especially relevant. We live in an age of science and technology, where empirical evidence and logical reasoning are highly valued. While these are undoubtedly important, they don’t encompass the entirety of the human experience. There’s a whole realm of subjective, personal, and spiritual experiences that can’t be measured or explained in scientific terms, but are nonetheless real and meaningful.
In terms of personal development, this quote suggests the importance of being open to and accepting of experiences that go beyond our intellectual understanding. It encourages us to embrace the unknown, the unexplainable, and the mystical, and to recognize that these experiences can offer deep insights and contribute to our growth and understanding. It’s about balancing our logical, analytical side with our intuitive, spiritual side, and recognizing the value in both.
So, in practical terms, this could mean taking time for meditation, contemplation, or other practices that cultivate a sense of inner peace and connection to something larger than ourselves. It could also mean being open to moments of awe and wonder, whether in nature, in art, or in our relationships with others. These are all ways of tapping into the mystical side of life, and they can enrich our lives in ways that pure intellect alone cannot.
