Can a contemplative make a living in the midst of a hyped-up, marketing-oriented world?

I find it challenging to live as a contemplative in the midst of a marketing-oriented society.  While our culture thrives on hype and self-promotion, a contemplative radiates quietly, like ruddy alpenglow appearing suddenly - unannounced - on a mountain peak in the midst of a grey and cloudy sky.

In the 6th century B.C.E., Lao Tsu wrote these profound words: "Those who are wise embrace the One and set an example to all.  Not putting on a display, they shine forth.  Not justifying themselves, they are distinguished.  Not boasting, they receive recognition.  Not bragging, they never falter . . . The Tao does not show its greatness, and is therefore great . . . A truly good man is not aware of his goodness, and is therefore good."

In our time, there are billions of voices, all screaming: "Look at ME!  Buy MY product!  You need what I have!" In such an atmosphere, it would seem that a contemplative - living according to the principles set forth by Lao Tsu - is hardly even noticed.  And yet even contemplatives, like everyone else, need to make a living from their craft, and find it necessary therefore to engage in a bit of marketing. Such selling will of necessity be low-key if the contemplative is to maintain his or her integrity.  But do people hear such soft voices in the midst of a world of hyped-up yelling?  I often wonder. Yet I hold stubbornly to a conviction that somehow, somewhere, people DO indeed notice, and are drawn to the contemplative's gifts.  I also trust that these same folks will want to purchase their goods and services. Is this a foolish faith?

Photo: Alpenglow suffuses Storm Peak and a portion of Keyboard of the Winds, with Long's Peak looming just behind; Rocky Mountain National Park, CO; November 17, 2012