In order to get underway,
we do have to set out.
This is meant in a double sense:
for one thing,
we have to open ourselves¹ to
the emerging prospect and direction of the way itself;
and then, we must get on the way, that is,
must take the steps by which alone the way
becomes a way².

The way of thinking cannot be traced
from somewhere to somewhere like a
well-worn rut,
nor does it exist as such in any place.

Only when we walk it, and in no other fashion, only,
that is, by thoughtful questioning,
are we on the move on the way.

This movement is what allows the way to come forward.

That the way of thought
is of this nature is part of the precusoriness
of thinking, and this precusoriness in turn
depends upon an enigmatic solitude,
taking the word “solitude”
in a “high” unsentimental sense…

The things which we conceive and assert
to be the results of thinking,
are the misunderstandings to which
thinking ineluctably falls victim.
Only they achieve publication
as alleged thought, and occupy
those who do not think.

To answer the question
“What is called thinking?” is itself always to keep asking,
so as to remain underway.
This would seem easier than the intention
to take a firm position; for adventurer-like,
we roam away into the unknown.

What Is Called Thinking? by Martin Heidegger, Part II, Lecture V, page 169

This extended quote is formatted to feature the rhythm of the sentences. The title poses a question – which the author, lecture by lecture offers a step by step exploration consistent with his insistence upon an individual practice of mindful reflection, as the ONLY means of creating a path forward. Various observations are offered concerning this “movement” of thought.  Originally I intended to utilize The Last Resort by The Eagles as sufficient commentary upon the lines which I selected of Heidegger’s writing. Before doing that, a further comment or two is in order.

Of supreme importance is to get moving, god-damn it just get started! BUT one needs clear away what one can of the debris obstructing a clarifying mind, that is, to “open” ourselves. Then, get started, – even as a child learns to stand and walk. Movement alone is key to thinking.

Thinking is provoked, sparked when one is in solitude. Solitude is like a cupped hand around sparks that fall into tinder, the precursor to catching flame. Provocation is a call which precedes us, which comes to meet you and I as we are moving… Claim your solitude!

Last, keep in mind the “correct” answers in books, our legacy from the past, – amount to “misunderstandings”, errors as far as our present is concerned. Our times and circumstances are different, changed, – so our path will be that to which we are called as 21st century caretakers of our home planet. Conventional thought – that common currency of American exceptionalism, also Christianity regarded as the only true religion, that white-Caucasian is better etc., etc.. are entertained by those who do not think.

To conclude: keep asking, keep moving, roam on!

Yeah, – this tune is a spark, provocation to ignite your flame of thought.