Many know that “philosophy” translates to “love of knowledge.” But true knowledge is not just a collection of facts that have been handed to you on a piece of paper. And, no matter the object of affection, love is a verb. Even more specifically, it is an action verb. Therefore, implicit in that love of knowledge is the understanding that acquiring the knowledge requires active pursuit, akin to a quest to attain the information.
A good philosopher will not just give you a list of answers or define truth for you, but will invite you to join them in this quest. Their work is not a destination; it is the path. It is the guiding light to find the destination you seek, and they are never so happy as when they find a companion to share in their pursuit.
I know that I have been blessed with companions to my soul’s pursuit of knowledge, whether for experience, truth, beauty, connection, or something more. Each is different in their walk with me, but I have been glad for them to join me on the path.