Living, dying, and thinking... they're all team sports

Living, dying, and thinking... they're all team sports

Timothy Leary, a psychologist and writer known for his advocacy of psychedelic drugs and exploration of consciousness, famously said, “Living, dying, and thinking... they're all team sports.” This statement encapsulates Leary's belief in the interconnectedness of human experience and the importance of collaboration and community in navigating life's challenges.

Leary's perspective on living as a team sport emphasizes the idea that we are all interconnected and dependent on one another for support, growth, and fulfillment. Just as athletes rely on their teammates to achieve success on the field, individuals rely on their relationships with others to navigate the complexities of life. Whether it be family, friends, colleagues, or mentors, our connections with others play a crucial role in shaping our experiences and helping us to overcome obstacles.

Similarly, Leary's view of dying as a team sport highlights the idea that death is a shared experience that impacts not only the individual but also those around them. In facing the end of life, individuals often rely on the support and care of loved ones to provide comfort, guidance, and companionship. By acknowledging the collective nature of death, Leary encourages us to approach the end of life with a sense of community and solidarity, recognizing that we are all in this together.

Leary's assertion that thinking is a team sport underscores the idea that our thoughts and beliefs are shaped by the influences and perspectives of those around us. Just as we are influenced by the ideas and opinions of others, we also have the power to shape and influence the thoughts of those around us. By engaging in dialogue, debate, and collaboration with others, we can expand our understanding, challenge our assumptions, and cultivate a more nuanced and inclusive worldview.