The Second Immortal

15/12/2025 19 min
The Second Immortal

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Episode Synopsis


I recorded this episode beneath a waning crescent moon, on the threshold of the winter solstice, reflecting on the many ways humans mark light and darkness across cultures. And among my many readings in this reflective season, I find and offer a reading of Alan Watts’ parable The Second Immortal, as a meditation on the quiet holiness of ordinary life. May it be an invitation to notice that what we’re seeking may already be living itself through us.Connect with me by visiting stephenghenning.com. Here, you can:Sign up for Transcript Plus+ editions for each Two Steps episodesSubscribe to the One Step Back newsletter posted on each New MoonGet in touch with me by replying to any email, once subscribedFind social links for Instagram, Threads, Goodreads, and SpotifyMentioned in the episode:The Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu, translated by Stephen MitchellDevotions by Mary OliverAwareness by Anthony De MelloThe Bhagavad Gita, translated by Stephen MitchellBecome Who You Are by Alan WattsTimestamps:00:00 - Opening05:06 - The Second ImmortalMay you gaze softly at the sky. May you breathe deeply, sleep soundly, and have courage to take your next Two Steps.

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