Computers are useless. They only give you answers.

— Pablo Picasso

Mysticism seems to focus on the questions, on wonderment and awe. In world religions, mysticism stands in contrast to fundamentalism. Not its opposite, for I don’t believe mysticism opposes anything. It would be inclusive in its wonder, but there is a contrast between asserting dogma and a receptive state of attentiveness. (I am composing this on a computer, Pablo.)

Mysticism takes a lot of a person’s time. All of it, actually! And dang, it can look like you’re doing nothing. People who take up the...