Page 35 - Effable Encounters

Proxy Predators

The disciple scowled. Then he stopped in his tracks.
“Wait a minute. This type of problem leads me to becoming an
accountant, not a saint. Given the complexity of any human decision,
a computer would be required to process all the variables involved—
and even then its results would be questionable. It is obvious why a
practical person would let some quasi-arbitrary authority settle his or
her moral difficulties: they take too much time and trouble otherwise.
Faith in a higher power, even though its revelations may be shredded
by lower rationalism and its strictures fly against common sense,
compassion, and the need to keep peace with one’s neighbors, is the
path to be sought. It may not matter at all which source I choose, as
long as I stick to it. For that I will need a conversion experience,
because my mind, under your guidance, has developed into a mill for
splitting hairs. Thus, you cannot be my teacher any longer. I am
leaving. Goodbye.”
The disciple turned on his heels and strode off in the direction
from which they had come. The master sighed and continued his
perambulation, wondering how long it would take the young man to
realize he still did not know what was right.

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