Can liminality itself become a moral ideal â€" the art of living without closure?
Living without closure is an intriguing concept that has been explored in various fields such as psychology, philosophy, sociology, and literature. It involves accepting that life is unpredictable and uncertain, and learning to live with ambiguity and openness. In this context, liminality can be seen as a state of being between two distinct stages, where one cannot predict what will happen next.
Can liminality itself become a moral ideal, or should we strive for closure in our lives? In this essay, we will explore the pros and cons of living without closure and whether it is possible to make it a moral ideal.
Living without closure means embracing uncertainty and openness. We are constantly bombarded with information and choices, but choosing one option often leads to closing doors to other possibilities. Living without closure allows us to remain open to new opportunities, ideas, and experiences. It helps us to stay flexible and adaptive, which is essential in today's rapidly changing world. Liminality also encourages us to let go of attachments, expectations, and preconceptions, and focus on the present moment. This can lead to greater mindfulness and happiness.
Living without closure comes with its own set of challenges. Not knowing what will happen next can be stressful and anxiety-inducing. It may lead to indecisiveness and paralysis, making it difficult to take action and make decisions. Living without closure can also be overwhelming if we try to do too much at once, leading to burnout and exhaustion.
Not having clear goals or objectives can leave us feeling directionless and aimless.
Living without closure may create tension in relationships, as others may feel unsupported or abandoned when we don't commit to specific plans or outcomes.
While living without closure has its advantages, there are also disadvantages that must be considered.
Each person needs to decide for themselves how they want to approach life and whether they prefer closure or liminality. Whether liminality becomes a moral ideal depends on personal preference and context.
Exploring the concept of liminality can help us to challenge our assumptions about certainty, predictability, and control, and find new ways of living more fully and authentically.
Can liminality itself become a moral ideal — the art of living without closure?
Liminality is a term that refers to the state of being on the threshold between two different stages or identities. It can be understood as a kind of transition period in which people are neither fully one thing nor another but instead occupy an ambiguous space in between. Some scholars have argued that this concept can offer valuable insights into various areas of human experience, such as spirituality, social identity, and personal growth.