And somehow, I managed---here's Bushrod on the left and Chris--head computer geek for Los Alamos Labratory (now retired)on the right. His expertise ranges far beyond computers, however, to politics, literature, love and what constitutes the good life. I had an hour or so to pick his brain. Note the everpresent note cards and pen in my pocket.
I've forgotten what he was explaining here--but when he speaks the whole room listens. I watched him moderate a roomful of philosophers with utmost kindness and effectiveness. How is it that some personalities get so polished in a single lifetime?
This is Jim--another Big Brain kind enough to have lunch with me. He began as an electrical engineer and expanded in several directions---Inventor of a new kind of building material (paper and concrete --house currently being lived in) ---took me to lunch in his self-built electric car---delivers erudite papers on arcane aspects of physics ---but most interesting to me is his (and others) project to re-invent----the church??--no that's not quite it---it's all the good things a church could deliver if it left off the doctrine and superstition and power structure to focus on creative connection and evolving values. Check it out for yourself: http://www.journeysantafe.org/
Now I will answer my title question--How to engage a big brain? ASK FASCINATING QUESTIONS. It's a skill worth developing---I have worked on it since that embarassing day in high school when a cute lady said hi to me and stuck around for more---I did not know how to carry a conversation forward and after an awkward silence she drifted away--opportunity lost.
OH COME BACK NOW, DIXIE SHASTINE--GIVE ME ANOTHER CHANCE--THIS TIME I WILL LET GO MY FEARS TO CHARM YOU WITH WINSOME CURIOSITY---HALF MY SENTENCES WILL END WITH QUESTION MARKS. WE WILL PART--BOTH AGLOW--FEELING UNDERSTOOD--APPRECIATED.
Jim in his shop--look at that complicated gizmo on his workbench.
Asking the right questions uncovered a surprising hobby--writing poetry--he shared some with me. Good stuff--direct--undefensive.
My third Big Brain interview--Bushrod--this one is years long and ongoing. We knew each other in New Orleans 20 plus years ago. Teacher, furniture maker, philosopher--lives in quiet solitude at the end of a road in a house built mostly by himself. His genius is to envision very large projects in a general way---- then in thousands of tiny steps---let the general vision become a specific reality. His house was 15 years in the unfolding--isn't done yet---has built a great shop--hot tub, sauna and his own electric car.
He lives at an effortless pace, building all the furniture and cabinetry in his house--a tiny bit at a time. After 15 years, he's almost ready to paint the exterior.
RANDY PHILOSOPHIZES: Big brains are inspirational people who have polished their intellect. They represent about 2 percent of the population. It is not the data in their heads (an encyclopedia has more) that sets them apart, but a curiosity that feeds on itself , drawing them ever deeper into the mystery of life---stimulating an urge to understand-- and parlay that understanding into contribution. To draw benefit from them, you need not impress them with your wisdom---only ask them fascinating questions. For a clearer picture of such individuals click here: http://mobilecodgers.blogspot.com/2008/03/characteristics-of-self-actualized_31.html
Hi Randy,
ReplyDeleteOk, here's the deal. I happen to consider you a big brain type. Not in the same vein as those you speak of here. I mean it in the sense that you're not bound by a conventional lifestyle.
Having said that ... I'm currently taking steps to "win my freedom" as you put it. I will be out there soon enough. I'm hoping that our paths will meet someplace and I'll get a chance to engage you for your story for a change.
Steve
Thank you Steve and you will be welcome to the wonderful world of vagabondage--a reality as wonderful as the fantasy--I've found. Yes--let's do cross paths--I love to exchange stories and tips.
ReplyDeleteSounds like an interesting group of thinkers and speakers. I'm curious, how many of these thinkers have you heard speak from the podium? Question #2, which do you find more informative, their podium talks or direct conversations with them?
ReplyDeleteRon
Anonymous: I've not heard either of them give a formal lecture. I did participate in the philosophy forum which was led by Chris.
ReplyDeletere: the 2nd question--easy answer--by far I would prefer a one on one interview---get to ask precisely what interest me and follow conversational "leads" to the most interesting corners of their brain. They do me the most good when I listen skillfully enough to see for a time the world through their eyes.
Thinking is a wonderful art...I enjoy a good debate and always when the product of necessity ends with invention. I regret that my travels will not take me as far north as Denver..only to Basalt/Snowmass. Tonight Im trying to stay out of the wind in the slightly run down town of Winslow. I hope to visit the crater tomorrow weather and sand storms permitting.
ReplyDeleteRandy, I guess you've already migrated to Denver. I used to live there. Am currently just south of Pagosa Springs being camp host at a small RV park. I enjoyed this post on Big Brains. I once tried to find my way into Santa Fe, professionally as well as physically. Got lost and couldn't find my way into downtown. AND I didn't get to make any contacts. Guess it wasn't meant to be!!!
ReplyDeleteHi Randy,
ReplyDeleteI've just recently started following your blog and I'm curious: What happened to your old rig (the featherlight I believe)? Have you ever posted a how-to guide on how to best optimize a cargo trailer?
I'm interested in learning but not really sure where to start. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
Ian
Hi Sun: And welcome to my world. In the fullness of time perhaps I will get a glimpse of yours.
ReplyDeleteI sold the Stealth Trailer to a guy in Phoenix---often I miss it as it towed much easier and I loved the wide open barn doors in the rear.
My advice is that of Joseph Campbell (Hero of a thousand faces): Follow youe bliss---find out what thrills you and do that. I would add that I did small experiments with myself to help discover my bliss. (comfortable mobility, freedom, creative expression)
If this lifestyle or any part of it draws you--why not try some small experiments with yourself to see what "blisses" you. I started by camping in my car--removed 3 seats, platformed in a bed--engineered screens for the windows, got a small stove and hit the road for the summer. Really enjopyed myself--went on from there. Google www.cheaprvliving.com for a host of good idea. Randy