Ecological mindfulness, spirituality, and life-long (hybrid, dialogical) learning: a tribute to Michiel van Eijck

Abstract

In this tribute, I articulate the contributions Michiel van Eijck made to science education, as experienced through our relation, which ranged from supervisor and colleague to friend. His ecological thinking about human knowing, which was reflected in his spiritual inclinations, constitutes his legacy that will have an impact on our field for years to come.Om gate, gate, paragate, parasamgate, bodhi svaha. With these words from the Heart Sutra, and their Dutch translation, began the official death notice with which Michiel van Eijck's family officially notified friends (among which he counted me), acquaintances, and colleagues that he had passed away. Only weeks before that notice I had received an email from Michiel's account that told me about his imminent death. It was not only telling me that he was in the process of leaving, but the sound of the voice, though using first-person signifiers, already had a third-person feel. He was here and already departed simultaneously. I responded at some length to this email, writing to him about finding strength in his spirituality, about how an (eternal) life without ulterior motive realizes itself in each and everyone of us. It is in and through our lives, marked by our coming (birth) and going (death) that life maintains and renews itself. The email note had talked about a short period he had left; and although it gave his phone number and address where he could be contacted, there was no more reply. Within weeks he had passed away. The last