This diary explores the profound distinction of two areas of focus in what has been lumped together as "meta" here at DailyKos. There are great benefits in understanding the differences between these two fields of thought. A cooling of some of the flame wars, a gathering place and symbol for like minded deep meta ecologists, and a truth in labeling clarity for everyone, pragmatists and generalists alike.
So what the heck are you talking about, you ask? More below the fabled fold...
My interest in this subject has been ongoing since I've been here at DailyKos, but was really sharpened by reading another fine diary by eOz in the excellent Countdown To No Confidence series. How can more attention be brought to the issues raised there? I thought we really have two types of meta here; what I'd call a DailyKos process meta and a deep meta. So what is deep meta? I'm referring to those fields of thought, feeling, and intuition that look at the more abstract, subtle, and unifying aspects of our existence. Deep meta is philosophical, reflective, "softer", integrative, inspirational, loving, etc. But deep meta can be shy and seem obscure in the rough and tumble world of politics. And it can be verbose, as many know! Having it's own tag of recognition will facilitate the very important function of integration that it offers, while steering away those who could care less or have another focus. And so with this in mind, I searched for the latest "meta" diaries and let's see what we find to flesh out the discussion.
Now the first two diaries that I came across only mentioned meta in passing, no reason to tag "meta", particularly. The third is a powerful example by Erevann of what I'm calling deep meta.
The ultimate idea behind my little dissertation here is that when we find ourselves in a moment of conflict with another, it is imperative upon those involved and all too often a neglected responsibility, to maintain a level of both impartiality and empathy towards our opponents. I would apply this principle to our every interaction concerning our issue advocating, debates both within the community and without, and in our greater, more shared efforts in the larger political sphere, if we truly wish to have a lasting effect upon the nature of our shared community here and on the national political stage.
But by not being tagged with a universally recognized tag it can be forgotten or hard to find.
The next, by RenaRF, is clearly DailyKos process meta. Next we have more process meta, this one by redlami. Another non-meta post. More process meta, this one by Jerome a Paris, that also touches upon deep meta. Which brings up the point here that regular ole dKos meta blends just fine with deep meta. One person's deep meta might be another's plain ole meta. "We are working on many levels here." Here's some good deep meta by teacherken.
The meta challenge is this - how does each of us act to ensure that when the one who is different, who perhaps is irritating or annoying, who does not belong, speaks the words that would benefit us, that we will hear? How can we ensure that we are capable of listening, even if it be an uncomfortable truth?
Some more not really meta diaries. Some more process meta. And so on. Most "meta" diaries are about (meta=about) the processes of DailyKos itself. But a few meta diaries deal with broader issues of community, unity, meta-framing, etc. The point being that diaries focusing more on the processes of consciousness itself deserve to be identified as deep meta for the edification of all.
So if you think your meta diary covers more than the pie and flame wars here at dKos; if you see tides in the public mind shifting subtly, but importantly; if a more inclusive vision of unity and wholeness takes hold of you; if concern that your complex vision will get lost in the breakneck speed of diary turnover: then add the tag "deep meta" to your diary. This will give a lifeline to your insights and allow the other deep meta folks to find you.
So two proposals:
- Adding the tag "deep meta" to your broad, esoteric diary. You probably know the Ones.
- A regular, ongoing series, hosted by yours truly, entitled "Deep Meta Review" that will gather the not so rabid lonely lambs of the deep meta world to frolic in the fields of esoteric unity.
Deep meta is not for everyone. If that means you, then please pass over the deep meta tag and pursue your own interests. But for the few, (apparently), of us who relish diving deeply into the meta waters, let’s gather together and explore the vast realms before us. More than anything, politics is about a change of mind, in people individually, and collectively. And this is what deep meta addresses most essentially. So dive in, the deep meta is fine!