For the world is an ever-elusive and ever-disappointing mirage only from the standpoint of someone standing aside from itโas if it were quite other than himselfโand then trying to grasp it. But a third response is possible. Not withdrawal, not stewardship on the hypothesis of a future reward, but the fullest collaboration with the world as a harmonious system of contained conflictsโbased on the realization that the only real "I" is the whole endless process.
Alan WattsIf we cling to belief in God, we cannot likewise have faith, since faith is not clinging but letting go.
Alan WattsWhen we dance, the journey itself is the point, as when we play music the playing itself is the point.
Alan WattsThe question "What shall we do about it?" is only asked by those who do not understand the problem. If a problem can be solved at all, to understand it and to know what to do about it are the same thing. On the other hand, doing something about a problem which you do not understand is like trying to clear away darkness by thrusting it aside with your hands. When light is brought, the darkness vanishes at once.
Alan Watts