but for the grace of god
or, why i find augustine so compelling.
perhaps the single most devastating consequence of the ultimate impossibility of totalization is the (near?) inevitability of ethical failure. however careful we are, however open and attentive, however experienced and knowledgeable, however reflective--however deeply, genuinely, completely committed we are to doing what is right, to taking care of the Other and of all others--we will meet with situations in which we a) don't know what to do but nevertheless b) must do something.
it's depressing to reflect upon all the harm i've caused others, out of selfishness, carelessness, bitterness, jealousy, anger, spite. but it's damn near paralyzing to reflect upon the fact that i will (in all probability on numerous occasions), despite my sincerest efforts to the contrary, necessarily fail someone i love, in a matter of grave importance, and that the damage i inflict will be irreversible.
i can only hope it hasn't happened already.
perhaps the single most devastating consequence of the ultimate impossibility of totalization is the (near?) inevitability of ethical failure. however careful we are, however open and attentive, however experienced and knowledgeable, however reflective--however deeply, genuinely, completely committed we are to doing what is right, to taking care of the Other and of all others--we will meet with situations in which we a) don't know what to do but nevertheless b) must do something.
it's depressing to reflect upon all the harm i've caused others, out of selfishness, carelessness, bitterness, jealousy, anger, spite. but it's damn near paralyzing to reflect upon the fact that i will (in all probability on numerous occasions), despite my sincerest efforts to the contrary, necessarily fail someone i love, in a matter of grave importance, and that the damage i inflict will be irreversible.
i can only hope it hasn't happened already.