Q&A

the absurdity and humor in the frailty and fallibility we each have. Candide also helps explain that while there are specific incidents in each individuals life it is the sum of human understanding that determines the fate of humanity.

Homer’s Odyssey, Alexander Dumas novel of revenge “The Count of Monte Cristo” and other books revealed “The Hero’s Journey” when I was young. This is aptly defined in Joseph Campbell’s book of the same name. These and other books of this type led me to live a life filled with adventure and meaning.

Many religious texts from Western and Eastern cultures have convinced me that throughout all of human history people have sought to understand the meaning of life. I’ve come to see this from the prism of “comparative religion” which sees wisdom where it exists instead of imagining that one cultural perspective is better than others. This engenders tolerance and critical analysis and recognizes dogma, prejudice and intolerance when it appears.

Is there a quote; story; image or creative person or object that continues to inspire your belief that anything is possible?

Perspective connects us to our humanity, placing innovation in its context, it helps remind us of what’s important. In a bid to elevate this authentic voice, our Inspiring Minds series kicks off by asking documentary filmmaker, John D Liu, for his take on life.

Liu is also the Ecosystem Ambassador, Commonland Foundation and founder of the Ecosystem Restoration Camps and Communities Movement

I’m not sure that I believe that “anything” is possible. I do believe that there is the possibility infinite potential genetic diversity but this is different from anything. In my experience the greatest inspiration is in the awesome wonder of nature. One of my earliest memories is of noticing that leaves were turning to face the sun and following the sun across the sky during the day. To then consider that each tree was alive and part of a vast community of trees that were breathing in symbiotic relationship with me and all other oxygen breathing organisms.

This and the knowledge that all the living beings over all of evolutionary time have died and given up their bodies to nurture the next generations of life have put my own life in perspective that makes some sense. It explains why each moment is precious and I’ve seen how my life has purpose and is significant to me and to all life. It also shows that we are all equal and all capable of contributing to the sum of human knowledge.

My father who passed away at 99 years old and my mother who is still alive at 103 have inspired me enormously with their courage and positivity.