Something I want to help bring to existential writing is heart. What do I even mean by that? Well, Thomas Moore's book Care of the Soul touches on this sense. It is a felt sense in the words of Eugene Gendlin that does not come through in Existential writing. I am very drawn to existential writing and therapy. I resonate quite fully with it, but sometimes find myself wanting more. I understand this is the point, to some extent. The human predicament is not one of rosy colors. It involves death, isolation, meaninglessness, and a lack of authenticity (if not engaged). The existentialists know that if you confront these things you will live a deeper more fulfilling life but they don't write about this fulfilling life. They are finger pointers. They are play-by-play commentators and not color commentators. I am also not a color commentator but see its necessity in existential psychology as well as in my own life.
I want to help myself and clients find that place where we sink our teeth into life after facing our own death. I want to find what full authenticity feels and looks like - not just what the struggle looks like to get there. I fear my desire may be to make this endeavour religious, but I want to work hard not to. Why? Because it is not about dogma. It is about what is and enjoying it. It is about what is and accepting it. It is about what is for us as individuals and relishing in it. It is about coming home into ourselves and sharing it with others.
Exploring the "positive" side of existential psychology and philosophy is something I'd like to attempt. I believe part of this is done by bringing in the humanities. We'll see won't we.
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