He who bends to himself a Joy
Doth the wingéd life destroy;
But he who kisses the Joy as it flies
Lives in Eternity’s sunrise.
This verse by William Blake parallels ancient Chinese wisdom of “following the path of least resistance,” of attuning to the intrinsic rhythm and movement of life, of “going with the flow.”
In physics, the path of least resistance is always taken by objects moving through a system. Water flowing downhill follows the path of least resistance as it is pulled downward by gravity. Atmospheric disturbances (storms) flow toward areas of low barometric pressure where lower air density offers less resistance. Electricity flowing through a circuit behaves likewise: the lower the impedance, the greater the current; the higher the impedance, the lower the current.
The path of least resistance should not be understood as being the easiest way, as it is often superficially defined. For example, the easiest way to behave might be to persist in one’s bad habits or judgments. Finding the path of least resistance requires deep reflection into the nature of things as well as freedom and willingness to personally adapt and change in accord with perennial laws, which, in turn, requires introspection. Reflection and introspection with the aspiration of creating balance and harmony are rarely easy.
Nor should following the path of least resistance be thought of as being passive. After viewing this brief film clip, see if you don’t agree that the path of least resistance is one of the most powerful forces in the universe.
This week’s image ~ above right ~ Yellowstone River.
Thumbnail image ~ Gulls Over Gazos Creek, California.
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
Nice how the rainbow comes in at the end of the vid!