We think about the nature of patterns. From Alexander we have embraced the paradigm of pattern languages – recognizing that this paradigm is likely rooted back in the pattern books of Downing, a link through Scully.
As we talk about patterns with others, how might we explain what they are and why they are important?
Takashi Iba talks about a pattern as a "rule of thumb" that carries this definition: >a broadly accurate guide or principle, based on experience or practice rather than theory
A good description, but one that lacks the feeling we seek. Feeling that we now celebrate as Whitehead's rich thought is slowly being unveiled.
English is Takashi's acquired language. I would love to know how he describes a pattern in his native Japanese.
We seek, then, words – abstractions – that carry the feeling of patterns. It is in this journey we come across the phrase "guiding wisdom".
We feel that in these words is the experience we seek to mirror, that same one that happens in the wood shop as we learn the ways of our elders, those who have wisdom that reaches back over many years, many generations. Wisdom that guides us forward, into the unknown from which new creation emerges.
One that allows us to see the Light on the Hills.