(continued from “Home” Page)
After sitting for a while, it's good to stand and stretch--to loosen muscles and connective tissue that can become stiff and sore in being too sedentary for too long. It's relaxing and energizing to stretch, to feel the whole body like this, and expand our senses and breathe more deeply. This is so beneficial to the nervous system, and the circulation of oxygenated blood and nutrients throughout the body.
With any of our stretching, it's good to find the fullest stretch that's unique to each of us, and hold it nice and still for 15-20 seconds (or longer), all the while breathing fully--with complete exhalations allowing for fuller inhalations. And best to get into and out of each stretch slowly and gradually.
So, let's stand, and start with an overhead stretch--clasping our hands, and with the palms facing up, reach straight toward the ceiling. We can look up, as well, as we extend through our ribs, shoulders, arms and fingers...Next we can clasp our hands behind us at the base of the spine or so, and raise the hands and arms up toward the shoulders, drawing shoulder blades together, and moving the hips forward too as we arch back.
Foward bending from the waist next--letting the torso and arms/hands reach down toward the floor. If we can't quite touch the floor with straightened legs, we can rest our hands on our knees, or shins, ankles or feet. Another option here, is to hold an elbow in each hand--right hand holding the left elbow, and vice versa...Best to come up slowly to a standing position, by bending the knees, putting our hands on them and curling up, one vertebrae at a time (with hands walking up the legs for added support if need be).
And then, we can go right into a standing back extension, with the inside of the hands (palms up, fingers down) resting on the lower back, right under the ribs--as we arch back, look up, and let the head rest relaxed on the shoulders. Drawing the buttocks slightly together is suggested here, to help support the lower back. A nice relaxed belly is good too, letting the whole torso breathe beneath our hands--expanding on the in-breath and falling on the out-breath.
As we sit back down, we can do a seated twist--putting the left hand on the outside of the right leg, with the right hand reaching back and grabbing the back of the chair (or right hand on the ground if we're sitting on the ground). Then, we rotate the whole torse to the right, looking back over the right shoulder, and hold still there; and then slowly come out of the stretch, and do the same thing to the other side (with the right hand on the left leg, the left hand reaching back etc.).
Last few stretches: We can clasp our hands behind the head, and look down, resting the chin on the chest, and slowly, evenly, firmly pull the head down--feeling the stretch isolated in the back of the neck and upper spine...and then releasing, we can look up to the ceiling, and move the head a little--looking up, looking down, and then right and left...Lastly, we can draw the shoulders up to the ears and then move them slowly--rolling them back behind the head several times.
...That's good, and of course, there are many other stretches we can do--basic hatha yoga style positions and movements that serve us well. Any or all of these help to relax and rejuvenate us, fine-tune our awareness, and allow a fuller feeling- connection to the whole body. And while sitting here or reading this (or while doing anything), taking long, slow deep breaths is a most wonderful, healthy, invigorating thing to do.
...So, with all that in mind and body, let's continue our discussions.
Could you speak more about love?
Our being present in any moment--with a simple attentiveness and caring toward another person or activity--is the purity of love and an expression of our very essence.
Or said this way: When we're simply open-hearted, simply loving—opening from the heart in whatever ways we're moved and even for a little bit—we are quintessentially aligned with What is manifesting everything and everyone. And vice versa, when we recognize the whole truth about ourselves, we're naturally inclined to bring love's sharing spirit to our various encounters however we can.
Every one of us is being given life in each moment via the heart; and here, within each pulse is an intimacy as deep and wide as all creation. In calling this core open-heartedness “love,” we're pointing to our Source-connected essence, our common bond, and most fundamental, valued expression of that. And what a truly satisfying way to be!--conveying a tender and passionate affection for life in any and all forms.
Love's roots and primary nature go deeper and beyond any definition. Still, we can allude to love and experience it in ways we're familiar with. This can be so universal and devotional as to embrace the presence of Source/of Spirit in all that is; or specifically expressed in “brotherly” and charitable ways; romantic, warm and sensual ways; kind, compassionate and supportive ways; welcoming, accepting and forgiving ways.
How wonderful, isn't it?--that there are these various ways love can be experienced and expressed. And as I see it, the bottom line is that wherever our affections rest, the real attraction is the open-heartedness itself, our Source-union itself, the giving and receiving of love--pure and simple, in this or any moment. This fulfills us the most and best serves the particular directions our lives take; and if we can't help yielding to love's preeminence in our lives, we are truly fortunate, truly blessed.
As you were talking, I had this strong sense, as well: Love is about blessing—in our receiving God's gift of an unconditionally open heart, and our reciprocating this grace through all the open heart gives. It's clear to me that this does us the most good, provides our lives with great meaning, great purpose, and is being “lucky” in the truest sense of the word.
Yes! The love that is our very essence is our true happiness and vice versa; and what good fortune to live life being sure of this and expressive of this. And it's equally clear, the depth and primary substance of love, of happiness, is present amid the natural impermanence of any pleasant thought, bodily sensation, emotional high, consolation or peak experience.
So, while love/happiness may appear in us as particular thoughts and feelings, these best serve to point us home--to what's infinitely more substantial and enduring than any mental activity, or emotion or sensation. Thank goodness, this core open-heartedness and most precious bond with our Creator is always here! And thank goodness, that realizing this is never dependent upon or reflected solely in uplifting events or inspiring moments--all of which come and go.
These tendencies, to look for love and happiness in the ways many people do, have been inherited, are learned and practiced and all around us in our culture. And isn't this is a common misconception: believing our true fulfillment is caused by someone or something pleasing us, exciting us or making us feel a certain way about ourselves? What we might get then are pleasant feelings, but still fleeting ones--ones that are subject to conditioned behavior, particular moods, the whims of others and the fickleness of wants and circumstances.
Yeah, as I look at my own experience I can see how I've, at one time or another, mistaken real love/happiness for infatuation, exhilaration and stimulation, attention and approval and narcissistic confirmation when I look in the mirror.
Haven't we all gone 'round and 'round chasing happy feelings, ego-gratification and things like a better self-image--struggling, perhaps, to come up with successful strategies to accumulate these and make them last? And don't many of us continually try to find satisfaction in things like greater popularity, power and prestige, “people pleasing,” or even through others feeling sorry for us in order to get their sympathy?
It seems, that when we've yet to realize what comes from all the way inside us and satisfies the whole being in authentic ways, we can't help seeking what end up to be poor substitutes for this.
And it's not that doing things purely for the sake of ego is wrong or bad. It's simply that, by valuing this the most, we may fail to see our most valuable treasure and lasting fulfillment--one that's always here and available to impact our lives in the most meaningful way. Such is the Source-filled/Spirit-filled open heart, and our chance to rest in this trust, this peace. What could possibly please us more than this, really?
And while our sense of living as the open heart may also appear to come and go, our great opportunity is this: to recognize what is ever-present and ever-available (no matter what we're thinking or feeling), and be this unconditional love right now, as best we can--even if it seems just a bit or for a little while...And what better way to express love, than by forgiving any of our tendencies to live otherwise.
Our life on this earth is too short, too precious, to not look to discover what satisfies us in the most deep and consistent ways...and this, it's clear to me, is unconditional love.
While I was listening to you, it struck me again: We are one with our Source--from where every heartbeat, and breath and bit of consciousness arises...and still, as human expressions of this, of God's totality, we are but a limited portion of its spectrum of possibility. As such, there's much that will remain a mystery to us, and beyond our ability to figure out or do on our own through the power of will. We need only look to the planets and stars floating and spinning in midair; or a seed turning into a plant, a tree or a child's birth; or the miracle that is each heartbeat, and brainwave and breath to be struck by this...How in the world do all these things happen--really?
And our being dumbfounded is good! --so we may give greater credence and devotion to what is greater than ourselves as these individuated forms, and more fundamental to us, in fact. In any moment, we can investigate the truth, tell the truth, realize the truth and live accordingly. Such is opening to What creates and sustains, transforms and contains it all...We can call this opening “love;” we can call it “trust,” or “faith” or “being settled at home.” Whatever we name it, it is a most natural and grateful response when our heart's truth is most thoroughly told.
Such a miraculous unfolding! ...everything and everyone is stemming from the Origin of all life and multiplied beyond trillions and trillions, as “you” and “me” and every form, every duality—in a multitude of types, and shapes and sizes...Thus, we are One, while in This being many—each of us from God, in God and back into That.
Within the Oneness, infinite multiplicity...
It's clear, then, each of us is a unique individual with particular capabilities, ways of perceiving things, choices to make, challenges to face and life-directions to take; and equally clear, that what we're composed of resonates with our deepest, shared roots and the greatest expanse. We're able to identify with this person who is reading this and know we are much more than our names, our occupations, situations, our past and future, likes and dislikes; more than these physical, mental and emotional entities...As we point out often here, it is good to have a strong sense of ourselves as these individuated forms. But alas, they are temporary...so, as we feel fully and presently incarnated, best to acknowledge what's beyond and deeper than the body-mind.
How wonderful, then, that recognizing the Life in our every molecule and breath can deeply affect the way we live and how at peace we are...So, as we might set out on a journey aimed at discovering our true self, we may not know we've already arrived. Our most fundamental, Source-connected truth is home, our very essence and who we are in our entirety, right now and forever after our bodily passing.
The whole deal, then, is to realize this, really! ...and live accordingly.
In this or any moment...Therefore, when we're present and peer all the way inside ourselves, tell the whole truth about ourselves, we can see our true face is no face at all, and in everyone we look at everywhere we go...Such an immaculate emptiness, abundant fullness and What's all-pervasive, absolute and always here and now! With such a thorough inquiry, who couldn't help but simply love then? --to breathe this, relax in this.
And we can use any and all means (including these considerations or any others) that might help us open and awaken to this. And when we truly recognize our true nature and the Oneness containing all relativity, every individuated form and all our diversity, we can see where compassion, generosity and true service come from and how it is our privilege to be channels for these. We are these possibilities, these embodied expressions of love.
From time to time in our meetings, it's good to just be quiet with all that we're reflecting on. We can sit right here, or if any of us would like to stand and stretch some more, feel free. We'll resume our conversations in 10-15 minutes or so.
Back to a previous topic of discussion, if we could...It seems to me, there's nothing wrong with getting attention and approval, proving and protecting ourselves, and feeling worthy, successful, attractive, and all the rest. It's the burden, the weight, the negative impact any of this might have on us that becomes the issue.
When there is so much at stake in the things you mentioned, it might indicate that we're being run by our ego and its story. Such is our believing that the habit-patterns reflected in the thinking-mind and emotional body are the extent of who we are, and what's most important...And these stories come through and influence us in all kinds of ways and in varying degrees of intensity. For some of us, these thoughts and feelings about ourselves can really weigh on us, and greatly affect our relationships and daily affairs. So, it's good to recognize them when they arise--to accept them, and accept that we don't want to be controlled by them.
I can see in myself how this mental/emotional activity has certain themes to it--that either appear directly as specific thoughts or feelings; or affect me indirectly, subconsciously, as an underlying factor in how I'm being and how I treat others. I'm sure we each have our own stories, or beliefs about ourselves, that we can take all too seriously.
And there's nothing wrong with stories, per se; and let's face it, we do enjoy a good one. And many stories, even the unhappy ones, can help us learn many important things in life--like not taking our limiting and confining beliefs about ourselves too seriously. It's these mental/emotional habits, patterns, and binding assumptions about ourselves that we're looking at and looking to see through here. These are the tales we tell ourselves, believe in and sometimes act out--that might blind us from seeing the deeper truth about ourselves.
(Various participants chiming in and giving examples): “I'm more successful than you, so there...If only I were wealthy and powerful, then I'd be admired, loved and happy...I've always been under appreciated...I'm invinceable, the chosen one...I'm on the side that's right; I'm on God's side...Hey look at me, adore me--I'm a sports hero, a war hero, a rock star; or poor me, I've always failed at doing something great and being somebody special...Hey look at me, I'm the do-gooder, the good son, so praise me...I'm entitled, so give me what I deserve...Unlike you, I had to work for everything I've got...I don't feel I'll ever reach my potential...Look how impressive I am; I'm a doctor, and know about the most complex things...I'll never get what I really want--never be really happy, and it's all your fault."
...And so on; and we could go on and on. As we've talked about before, these kind of stories may continually come up in us. It's OK, and we can see them clearly as they arise...If we don't, they can become like the “elephant in the room” whose strong, conditioned reflexes can appear to take us over. Such is our reacting to our thinking and feeling as if these were always reliable and true; and such is our continuing to play out the past, and not letting the present be our chance for a fresh start.
And when this reactivity and the acting out of conditioned behavior produce turmoil, this can be reflected in all kinds of unhappiness in and around us. When we believe so fervently, for example, that someone else has done us wrong, rejected us or kept us down--when we base our world view and our actions on this anger, resentment and hurt--then conflict is likely.
Yeah, as I'm listening to this, what I see in myself are variations of self-centeredness--that manifest in being defensive and aggressive, even at subtle levels. I can tend to be so judgmental, impatient and critical of others. I don't want to admit when I'm wrong, or at fault about things. It's a self-righteousness that also feels very fear-based.
It's good to be honest with ourselves like this; it's the only way to bring our tendencies to the light of day. And with all this, again, we best exercise compassion--as we realize how “all too human” we're being with all our mental, emotional and behavioral patterns. They are deeply engrained, passed on from one generation to the next, and mirrored, supported and reinforced in others within any given culture or ideological persuasion.
And it is precisely this understanding and forgiveness that is the perfect antidote for what we find so common these days. This is an age not only filled with much anxiety, but also with people being very closed-minded, hardhearted, and totally wrapped up in their individual or group point of view. This can't help but create much dissatisfaction, discord and struggle, and the greatest need for love and the clear light of consciousness.
It's obvious to me, that when we unconsciously play out our conditioned habits, attitudes, and all that our minds are filled with, we see what we see: sagas filled with, “I'm right and you're wrong” ego battles, and those playing the “blame game” or “being the victim game,” which are often so full of acts of retaliation.
This is especially the case when we identify ourselves so much with being the mistreated one, the wounded one, the abandoned one, and so forth. And likewise, being judgmental and intolerant are such common tendencies these days because our attachment to the ego (and glorifying our sense of “me and mine”) is so strong…When we think and believe that who we are (and what is most important) is what separates us from each other--our persona, our self-image, our past, our nation, and even our religions--then we've created the dissonance we see in our minds and on the daily news. Likewise, with our accomplishments, our acquisitions, our status, wealth, fame, power and all the rest—when these are what we covet the most...then...well, we have to see for ourselves what we really get as a result.
And thankfully, in any moment, we can awaken from the unconsciousness, the pain, of being run by such a limited and confining version of ourselves. We can awaken from what we might assume ourselves to be, and what our mental/emotional activity is filled with…And while all of this might be seen as the “play” of life, it can become our prison (and a very unhappy story) if it's believed to define us, and be what's most important to honor and defend.
Does the acceptance you emphasize apply to any unpleasant circumstances we might have trouble accepting? I'm thinking about this get-together the other night that I really couldn't stand attending but was obligated to.
What did you do?
Oh, I stuck around for a while, and then left.
Full acceptance implies accepting that some things will be unacceptable to us, and that we might want to change how we relate to them. At any point in our lives we might want to change jobs, our living arrangements, and how (and with whom) we spend our leisure time. We can accept any of these realizations and take whatever action is required--accept that we have the power to choose, to alter our circumstances and acknowledge what no longer suits us. There is no formula for any of this; each of us must decide for ourselves what's in our overall best interests, and most conducive to our true fulfillment.
And it's also true, that we may not need to change our circumstances, so much as how we relate to whatever we're doing. Being present, open, attentive and caring toward what might be tedious, or boring or uninteresting may completely change how we feel about such an activity. Doing the dishes, or the laundry or any job with our full presence may radically shift how we feel while doing these things. The same in being with those people who may seem shallow and uninteresting, or even loud, obnoxious and full of themselves: Our presence may affect how they are in that moment, or how we feel about them; may shift “the energy in the room;” maybe not. Maybe we excuse ourselves and leave. Maybe we can't leave and are stuck there, and the best we can do is consciously relax, be with our breathing and open from the heart--accepting being where we are, that people will be as they are, and that this situation too shall pass.
You've used the metaphor of making a fist in several different ways. One was in regard to the ways of the ego. What did you mean by that again?
I think I was talking about how our desires can be like making a fist, tightening it, and carrying around the tension created by this seeking. This is what happens when we're overly fixated on ourselves, as these individuated ego-forms we continually try to inflate, make more secure, work on or struggle to put up with.
While our capacity to identify “me” as this bodily, mental and emotional form is part of the human experience, such is a most confining attachment if this is all we see ourselves as being. And this view of things can lead to a constant grasping for what we think will make us happy, and our being braced against anything to the contrary.
It's easy to see, then, why many of us haven't found a genuine and lasting contentment...one that's free, thankfully, of needing to gratify ourselves enough, prove and protect ourselves enough, or have things always go our way.
How good, therefore, to be aware and see how we bind, limit and stress ourselves; and in such a moment of recognition, relax our clenched “fist” and find a most welcomed spaciousness always inside the hand. We can simply be...at ease in our entirety.
One could say, then, that a healthy, well-adjusted ego is one that doesn't take itself too seriously--that's put into proper perspective so it doesn't dominate our lives. Such is our seeing the “bigger picture”--of who we really are--while engaging in life's various activities, life's play...knowing all along where to give our greatest attention and devotion.
So, regardless of what we choose to do or become in life, best to trust and rest in our essential reality most of all. Even as we might be prone to many of the normal human fears and desires, and seek to achieve certain things--we are already whole and complete, in truth--already and endlessly home. And we can realize this in the finger snap of any instant!
Thus, again and again it's clear, that “I” as ego needn't be repressed or denied, or sought to be overcome or overthrown--only its limits understood and accepted as such--with all the insight, compassion and forgiveness gracefully afforded us.
Even as we experience thoughts, and feelings and situations of all kinds--including the most pleasant and those far from it--the happiness that's deeper, more fundamental and valuable than any mental/emotional activity or circumstance is here and now. Even as happy feelings may be totally absent when we're physically ailing, or having difficulties with anything or anyone in our lives, still, an essential fulfillment and serenity, an unconditional happiness, remains--ever-present and ever-available.
Such is revealed as we look all the way into our heart of hearts and tell the whole truth about what we find...about what is untainted and undiminished by any thought, or feeling or event. And what a blessing and our great opportunity: to see things through these truth-telling “windows” (even if, at times, it seems to be the slightest and briefest of glimpses). What a blessing, to live based on this steadfast clarity of our Source-connectedness and true nature--right here, right now!
As I'm sitting here, I can't help thinking of some of the people in my life I'm really grateful for--in helping me wake up--like Gangaji and Eckhart Tolle.
Thank goodness there are people in our lives serving our truth-telling, and reminding us to just be here--in the fullness of the moment. Lending such an eagerly listening ear to such wisdom is most beneficial--especially if this consideration is new to us--or if, at any time, we haven’t found the depth of happiness we might be seeking.
Even if our lives seem well-ordered and managed, and full of prominence and lofty ideals, we may have yet to discover what is truly fulfilling and most deeply satisfying. Such, it's clear to me, is nearer than near and closer than close--revealed in our every heartbeat, and breath and bit of consciousness shining through us! What good news, that we're never apart from this Source-abiding, this Presence, love and tranquility. What good news that we can be present to this, open our eyes and see this in any moment!
It's obvious, as well, that in being human, we do need reminders and guidance, encouragement and support in the ways each of us does. Whenever we're so preoccupied with (or seemingly lost in) our predicaments, and worries and plans, and repeating the same habits in mind and body--it's so good to hear the voices of wisdom and their sighs of relief inviting us home...likewise, when our hopes and dreams are merely distant images of consolation we might cling to, or maybe fear are beyond our reach.
What I'm learning and realizing, thanks to the teachers I value the most, is that the briefest moment of truth-telling can wake us up, and this awakening can occur in any here and now.
So, as we listen to the words of our spiritual forefathers and to those of any minister, teacher, mentor or friend, it's up to each of us to respond to what we hear--to investigate, reflect on/meditate on our core-truth for ourselves--in whatever ways truly move us and impact us...The realization of our very essence, then, is none other than a life given to trusting this and conveying this—our being forever at home in God, in love.
It seems many of us had to seem lost in order to be found, had to see what doesn't work in order to know what does, and go away to really appreciate being home.
This was certainly true for me and everybody I've talked to about such things. These are expressions of the universe in its totality, with lessons being learned and old ways of living needing to die in order for new ones to be born.
When there is a great need to hear what our innermost voice is telling us, there is an urgency to listen! Likewise, when things seem crazy, sanity is most welcomed, and when the hardening around our hearts is so prevalent, so painful, softening is most longed for and ripe to happen.
And this most profound learning occurs (and we can even call this is a “rebirth”)-- when, by whatever means and circumstances, we thoroughly look into and clearly recognize our very being. This is the Life-Energy woven into every fiber of our bodily existence and the same Presence we fade back into someday. This is the Oneness also vibrating in grains of sand, the flow of tides, the wandering breeze and each seeming contradiction of appearing to be separate from this. And it is only appearing to be distant that makes it seem like we're ever returning there.
How good, then, when we see how much this “homecoming” means to us—that our Source-connection, our very essence, is what matters most and a way of being based on this is the best way to live! How good to discover that this peace, this love, is the purest and simplest happiness and what provides our lives with the greatest meaning.
However this might happen, “self-realization” (or whatever we choose to call it) is a most complete honesty--as we affirm what we know in every heartbeat and breath to be true.
This knowing, this meditation, rests in what's inclusive of everything...including our confessions of being, at times, ignorant, unloving and egocentric, and including the appearance of “coming back” to where we've been all along. Thus, our being forever at home in God is a certainty big enough for every uncertainty, every paradox, and what's left when any idea or symbol, theory or belief is stripped away.
Some silent sitting , shall we?
I find an essential part of waking up is really getting and accepting that every thing, every form, does get stripped away. Everything, everyone, every experience, thought, emotion or perception is, in each moment and throughout time, forming and fading, arising and passing, however rapidly or slowly.
Essential yes! ...and most essential and meaningful to see, that as each life-form dissolves, it is cycled back into its formless roots, still and eternally in God's endless domain. And even though rain and river, spring and sweat, tears and ocean are different tastes, they are all still water—all the same Substance, from the same Source...So, while every form is impermanent, our very being is anything but...as we are all inseparable from the all-pervading Energy, or Spirit, that is eternal.
Or said this way: Our appearance as this organism is a slice of time in the continuum of our true self, a blip on the “screen” of our entirety, of our Source-connected true nature. However it occurs, the ending of anyone's particular “movie” may be sudden, unexpected or after a more extended visit in this realm full of turbulent, perilous possibilities. What saving grace that whatever takes place, who we are, in truth, goes on and on as we have since the beginning of it all...There is, in this sense then, no such thing as death as we may of thought of it or feared it; and what a blessed opportunity to be aware of this, the Big Picture, while our present form's alive!
Just the same, wouldn't you say, that grief at someone’s body-mind dying is a most natural occurrence? When we're close to a person and he or she dies in this form, it does sadden us; and this can so poignantly tenderize us and help all our relationships mean even more to us.
Yes...Such deep sorrow is natural, and can definitely aid us. Whatever serves the greater appreciation of our life's precious moments and intimacies is a good thing--a true blessing to be touched by the love that's at the core of everyone and inviting us to be just like it.
So, in being with a loved one's passing or the prospect of our own, we get to be present to, and fully acknowledge What all forms are at the mercy of and actually consist of. And recognizing this--our mutually shared essence--deepens both our compassion for one another and our trust in eternally being home.
In this or any moment, we can die while alive! --die to being so attached to this form that we can't see beyond it. Best of all, then, is to wake up, and relax in our Source-connected true nature--letting this be the foundation of our lives, and letting things of the form-world arise and pass as they will.
Likewise, knowing that the current body-mind's time may be up at any time puts any day-to-day concerns in proper perspective. This helps us recognize what's really important, and to just let every aspect of our lives free-fall and settle in our true, undying Condition.
Beautifully said...
And there is a natural human inclination to care for our bodies and those near and dear to us. In looking after our loved ones, we do everything we can to ensure their safety and their physical, mental and emotional well-being. We take all necessary precautions, especially for our children, who may not be able to for themselves. This is one of the great opportunities in our being alive—to be attentive and caring toward others, those in our family especially.
Still, as we know, being human includes our vulnerability in all its undeniable rawness. At any moment, any of us could fall ill, suffer an accident or even disappear. There are no perfect safeguards for our health and protection. Anything can happen, including what's nerve-racking, life-threatening or prone to cause panic; it is part of being on this earth in these fragile and finite forms. Anyone who's been terrified and traumatized when his or her child is in danger, or who has experienced the cruelty of war or the sudden loss of a loved one, knows what I'm talking about—how our lives are susceptible to such shattering blows.
No one can be certain how much time he or she has in this present, bodily form. Best, then, to do what we can to be healthy and safe and completely trust our Source, trust God...which is a natural response when we tell the whole truth about ourselves.
And for me, our vulnerability and physical mortality are the greatest incentive to tell the whole truth about ourselves...and likewise, our greatest solace—being at peace in the Life/Energy/Spirit that's creating us, sustaining us and where the body dissolves when our stay in this world is up.
This is home: wherein thoughts, feelings and beings of all kinds come and go; where birth and death, elation and tragedy, tribulation and trial have their place as contrasts. This includes both our limited, earthly life-span and our everlastingness. And while these two “worlds” may appear different on the surface and in their size and shape, if we follow our truth-wonder all the way, there's the merging of every dimension.
So, how does our being home affect how we deal with physical pain, like with an illness or an injury?
Here's how I see things: First off, when we're in pain because of an illness or an injury, it's natural to do what we can to relieve it; the same with any discomfort our loved ones might be experiencing. And let's face it, there is pain which can't be relieved, or only partially so, or only on some days and not others. We can explore any and all means to deal with our situation—medically, pharmaceutically or through other means--fully acknowledging that our pain exists, and feeling free to address it in any way we want.
So, we don't have to put up a good front, and try to like what's occurring and not do anything about it. For any of us, dealing with a disease or a disability (and seeking a remedy or a cure) may be our main concern, and where we direct a great deal of attention...Likewise, if a person is starving, first things first, find food!
And, there is pain which can't be relieved, or only partially so or only on some days and not others. Our ailing may continue no matter what we do, and may last a long time and even be terminal. Thus, while in pain, we only make matters worse by the further distress we might cause ourselves--in our futile (and often stressful) attempts to deny our situation or distract ourselves from it...or in our pouting, like, “Why me? I don't deserve this; I want the body-mind I used to have and did everything to improve and take care of. Why do things have to change and deteriorate?”
Change, sickness and death are an unavoidable part of these bodily forms; and it is Life encouraging us to look into any experience with a most truth-exposing “microscope.” Here, in the very core of anything (as science does confirm) is pure space, “no-thing-ness,” and the same inexhaustible force-field/flow of Energy animating everything and within which we forever reside. And sometimes, discovering this coincides with an illness or an injury affecting us to such a degree, that we can't help being plunged beneath the surface of our lives.
Thus, there are testimonials with a similar tone: “Before my health crisis began, I was so wrapped up in things, and unable to see beyond the world I assumed everything revolved around and that I completely controlled...Then, my painful ordeal stopped me in my tracks and caused me to admit my vulnerability, my mortality and lack of complete control. It was clear, I was being 'unwrapped'--being opened, and softened and readied to find the real meaning of it all--as the Source/the Spirit of real tranquility inside and everywhere around me...What a blessing, that came disguised in order to garner my undivided attention and unveil What I've come to cherish most of all.”
Speaking of death: It seems we, in effect, die every night in going to sleep, as far as dropping away from our normal awareness of the body-mind.
Yes...When we fall asleep we let go of the body--as we will during the body's dying, and our being emptied into rearranged particle-waves of space...And while sleeping, as with death, we remain--only without the physical presence we're used to at other times. In sleep, we get a taste of what happens at our body's final dissolving--when we're transformed into a more formless version of the same Energy/Spirit all matter is comprised of and boils down to...And come daybreak following any night's slumber, our eyes are opened and light appears via this same Force now dawning, everywhere inside us and all around our room.
Just as the reports from those who've actually, physically died for a time, and then been revived: We do pass into light.
...and love!
And are somehow aware of it.
Just like our overall awakening is our resting assured of being home--night or day, in sleeping or moving about, in this life and beyond.
Good morning everyone, and welcome back, or welcome for the first time if you're new here...Shall we sit silently for a bit, and/or stretch and consciously breathe? Whatever each of us would like.
(after about 15 minutes)...Anything anyone would like to bring up?
As I was aware of my breathing just now, it occurred to me how the root of the words, “spirit” and “breath” is the same--as in “respiration.” And some religious texts say that life is created and sustained by “God's spirit being breathed into each of us.” ...and this is likewise, where we return when our last individual breath is spent.
(another participant) And “spirit” and “inspiration” are also connected--as in being “inspired,” or uplifted or carried away by the Spirit/the Energy that's everywhere sustaining, floating, everything and everyone.
Yes!
(a third participant) And for me, all this segues into what I was going to bring up--about how important it is to live based on what is most true--where all is well, even if the world seems at times harsh, unfair and full of chaos and depressing stories on the daily news. And it seems that much of the news is depressing these days. Thus, in any instant, my primary devotion and place of rest can be my heart's truth, my Spirit-connection, even if the bickering around me is loud, and even if I need to stand up for myself or defend my loved ones.
Indeed...And let's be real: I or anyone may be living by the highest wisdom and someone could still take a punch at us, or break into our house to steal things or do our family harm...There's no doubt, right? --any of us would try to protect ourselves in whatever ways were needed. And like you say, in the name of love and its Origin, any self-defense is always looking for every peaceful solution...to convey the peacefulness we treasure in being home.
And there is no formula for this--how much or for how long we might have to exercise force in defending ourselves. We have to discover this for ourselves. In the martial arts I study and practice, “less is best” is emphasized--the least amount of force for the least amount of time, with the fewest injuries for all. And it's always best to try to find any alternative to physical force--every form of diplomacy and negotiation to calm a situation and remedy its causes.
Similarly, if I have a disagreement with a person, or get offended, lose my temper (or someone with me), it's clear, my essence is still here, still beckoning--to embody the spirit of non-violence you just alluded to. Hearing this may occur in an instant or after a period of time, reminding me to forgive our all too human tendencies to get upset and create conflict.
And, hearing my innermost wisdom also helps clue me in to how I contribute to the world's ills by being closed-minded or spiteful myself. If I become antagonistic or prejudiced toward someone or lash out at anyone, I get to see if I'm merely mimicking the qualities of the people I'm blaming, galvanizing opposition toward me, and creating further backlash and trouble for everyone.
That's why it's good to be aware of what's coming up in our thoughts and feelings--to see these clearly, and recognize if we're unconsciously acting them out...And when, “I'm right and you're wrong” vendettas gain such unresolved momentum over time, and those involved are so entrenched in their side's story and the justification of their grievances, the anger and vindictiveness can easily become “hair-triggered” and full of martyrdom. We see these kinds of clashes in various parts of the world, often through news footage in our face immediately on TV or the Internet. And because of this easy access to information, any violence resulting from the taking of sides can quickly erupt in other places.
As I see it, we have a greater chance to truly resolve any major issue or conflict when we really listen to the essence of our spiritual forefathers' timeless teachings...and act accordingly. When God's universal Spirit/universal Presence of love and deep-seated peace is valued most of all, we can best address things like the sharing of lands and goods, the upholding of basic human rights and civil liberties, and the constructive (rather than destructive) use of nuclear energy.
Likewise, any tendency in us to be intolerant, fanatical and hostile is more likely to dissipate when we recognize the significance and similarity of our religious and cultural foundations--allowing us, as well, to better let go of any lingering animosity related to past hostilities.
It's clear to me, that regardless of what occurs between cultures or nations that might be contentious, there is a spirit of cooperation and diplomacy we can rely upon, first and foremost, in facing anything. This is what the world needs more than anything. Such will require strong leadership and peacekeeping resolve--with a broad vision, fresh ideas perhaps, and the courage to proclaim what the people must be willing to heed—the essential principles of the wisdom-lineage we truly do have in common.
This is to honor the real heritage and deepest meaning of us all—the one Source pulsing in each of our hearts, our every breath, and expressed most fundamentally through our loving respect for one another.
Even as our hearts are always open and full of love at our innermost, we humans clearly have the capacity to act otherwise. We can say then, we're being “cold-hearted,” or “hard-hearted,” when we're behaving in close-minded or vindictive ways, or when we (in any way) ignore, deny, refuse or betray the core open-heartedness that is our true nature.
A common example these days seems to be this--how many people firmly believe they're on the “right” side of an issue to such an extent, that being defensive in their stance and retaliatory in their actions are controlling them. And in such situations, if reactions become violent, then revenge seeking and continued violence all too often occur.
So, regarding any disagreements in our lives: Can we give our positions and any actions resulting from them a thorough enough look-see, in order to understand how we may have perpetuated any “sword rattling,” or created greater animosity (and perhaps more enemies) by a certain stance? While affirming the right to protect ourselves, can we still find even the narrowest avenue into our heart of hearts and the realization of our mutually shared essence--of who we all are, deep down? This is the best chance we have to stop fanning the flames of rancor, contempt, distrust and vengence--the best chance to work things out in peaceful and lasting ways.
Isn't it obvious? --we're being called upon to look as deeply as we can inside ourselves; deeper than ideology and causes, deeper than personal or group history, everything. This is our challenge and the opportunity for real creativity and problem solving.
And this will only happen when our innermost being, our universality, is most highly valued by enough of us and allowed to have the final say...This is the voice of our true conscience, the guiding of our moral compass, and the willingness to tell the whole truth about ourselves and to live our lives based on this.
I'm convinced that abiding by our truth-telling has the potential to relax the most complex tensions, finger-pointing and blaming, and render the greatest help in finding the necessary compromises to any situation...It's always good to be really honest like this! ...about our core-Oneness and about serving our highest interests, or real peace and prosperity, by building far fewer walls around our hearts.
It seems to me, that in a real sense we can't help building these walls around our hearts. It's been going on forever like it's in our wiring.
We can't help it until we can--when we as individuals and as a species begin to wake up. And it's true, the design of the universe contains the countless polarities and dualities by which we experience life. These are all the contrasts we're familiar with: of dark and light, good and evil, birth and death, lows and highs, difficult and easy, agreement and disagreement, comedies and tragedies and every form of attraction and repulsion and so on. The list is most immense, and for a reason.
Without the darkness of night, the light of a sunrise wouldn't have anything to brighten; just as we need a good night's sleep to feel refreshed the next day. In the same vein, we experience cold by the absence of heat (and vice versa), a cramped space by the lack of room and an open hand because of a closed one. And in most stories, there's a protagonist in relation to an antagonist, with something to solve, to overcome—something to a which a happy ending refers and has meaning.
Similarly, being kind and forgiving wouldn't stand out as much without our capacity to be resentful, have animosities and hold on to grudges. How else would we value love's sublimity like we do? It wouldn't feel so good, so right, if we didn't have anything to contrast it with and didn't experience the pain of our discord and conflicts...And for some of us, the experience of boredom, lethargy and lack of stimulation knows no other outlets than being agitated and prone to stirring up trouble.
I can see this in my own life--in my tendency to take things so egoically, so personally, that I easily feel threatened by anything I perceive will thwart my self or group interests or might do me harm; and thus, the impulse to fight back.
For many of us, there is often a sense we're bracing ourselves for combat, even if we're not literally at war. In daily life and in all kinds of ways, “fists” can be up, trying as we will to perpetually prove and protect ourselves. In subtle or not so subtle ways, we experience being up against another, being someone who might retaliate, feel victorious or defeated and so on.
I can see how we are given many moments to learn about differences, problems and struggles and what's involved in resolving these--how any of our defensive and cruel tendencies can defer to a peace-making desire.
And deeper still, is the most lasting peace found in what has no opposite and includes every duality—in what is all-encompassing and just as boundlessly filled with love...Here, at our very Source-connected depths, is a wellspring of comfort, reconciliation and healing, where we're naturally inclined to treat each other more on the basis of our common bond and who we really are...What better place to come from in order to better our world? ...and what better means of entrance than by telling the absolute, core-truth about ourselves!
So, as situations in and around us might seem good, might seem bad, experience tells us this will never change. It's certain, there'll be both the pleasant and the unpleasant, victories and defeats. The real issue is our relationship to any occasion: What we're taken by and take with us, no matter where we go or the events occurring.
Even when circumstances overwhelm us and seem to bury all that's favorable, we can let go further still in God's bottomless being...where, in reality, we all float and likewise, all sink. We can settle evermore into that—where assurance is resounding and we can't help relaxing, can't help rejoicing.
Yeah, I'm finding that the more I'm committed to a life of love, of surrender to What I know in my heart of hearts to be true, the less anger there is in me...It still comes up, but with less weight, and it doesn't stay around as long. Now, I know I have a clearer choice to not let anger run my life.
There's always going to be things that upset us, that's for sure--people that might bug us, or stuff on the news, all kinds of things. Trying to suppress the anger (or deny it) doesn't do any good, and only causes additional distress inside us. So, as with any emotion, it's best to acknowledge and freely feel whatever's coming up. And perhaps, this involves some kind of action that can be taken—like working things out with someone with whom we're upset; or taking up some sort of cause that addresses what we're mad about.
That being said, we might find that at some point, our anger is causing a self-inflicted suffering that's just not worth it. We have to see for ourselves. How long do we want to stay angry, and have our lives be filled with it; is it doing us any good, really? No matter how much we might “get back” at someone, aren't we hurting ourselves most of all when we let our anger continue to grow, and gnaw at us and poison us inside? Even if it's a more subtle undercurrent that shows up as a sort of continual complaining about things, isn't this just more stress we've created for ourselves and others?
And as you're finding, these kinds of questions begin to answer themselves, as a shift in priorities happens--naturally--from anger to love. And while being disturbed about things might be a fuel for some kind of action, or cause--the bottom line, as I see it, is this: If we really want to create a world with more justice, fairness and righteousness in it, a world with more love in it—then, this is how we best be, first and foremost. Being nothing but enraged will only create more of this, more antagonism and conflict, no matter how just our causes might seem.
It feels like, that at any moment, we might encounter someone with whom we've been at odds—someone perhaps, deserving of our most sincere apologies. And perhaps, there are also those from whom we yearn to hear the same, “I'm truly sorry, please forgive me. How can I make amends?”
Let's be honest, how any of us acts can lead to varying degrees of upset, disappointment or regret; and we can easily feel let down, perplexed and saddened by the way events in and around us unfold. There's no escaping these and other painful aspects of the world we live in, including times which feel as if our hearts were “breaking.”
How good, therefore, that any moment can be seen as a chance to let any experience or condition be fully met, and brought into the unconditional openness at our core. How good, that our lives can be spent letting this meeting, this love, take up more and more room in and around us...hearing this most honest greeting even through our tears, crying to be listened to, crying to be heard.
I've especially noticed this recently--how cruel people can be to one another. And when any of us hurts another, it might not appear as bad as someone on the daily news who’s committed a most heinous act; but let's face it, we can be just as malicious in our minds, our emotions or slips of the tongue...In subtle or not so subtle ways and throughout our lives, we can be doing harm in our imaginations; our casual, caustic speech; innuendoes and body language.
It's also certain, further insight and the lessons that come in time are always needed to see more clearly and act more maturely. How else do we grow up, truly?--but through the repenting of our lapses from what does us the most good...How lucky we are, then, when our cold-hearted ways are cracked open by our remorse and “thawed out” by the warmth of tenderness always deep inside us.
In recognizing the all-pervading Genesis of our next breath, it's clear to me that our circle of relations reaches far and wide, really far and wide. Our web is spun in more directions than we can possibly imagine; and there's no question, when we hurt someone physically, emotionally or in our thoughts, this plagues us in some form or another at the same time.
Therefore, if there are people in our lives we have wronged or who have wronged us, who can't forgive us or we have trouble forgiving, this is the perfect moment, the perfect chance, to bring any disappointment or anger, guilt or shame--anything--into the room we're sitting in and the one in our heart of hearts. Here, there's a Source-communing sanctuary of such welcoming, that forgiveness and letting go come as naturally as breathing in and breathing out--letting us forgive ourselves (even for not forgiving) and extend, and request and receive needed apologies.
Yeah...If only I knew in the past what I know now, I might have treated someone or some situation in a different manner--making all the difference in what I'm now feeling remorseful about. If only I didn't have the habits and tendencies keeping me confused in the head and selfish in my outlook, I could have made wiser choices, better kept my word and offered kinder gestures. But I didn't; I was at whatever stage of maturity I was, and at times, being as dumb and foolish as a person can be.
Isn't this so for any of us?--as we act based on what we know at the time, “where our head's at,” and how our upbringing, life experiences and other forms of conditioning have shaped the way we are...When we truly comprehend this, we're more likely to show compassion toward each other's shortcomings and errors in judgment--more likely to let bygones be bygones.
And it's true, our regret can serve us, as learning from our mistakes is vital in order to break old habits--to stop repeating patterns of unhappiness and make any appropriate reparations for any wrong or harmful acts. And sometimes it takes being horrified enough by what we've thought, or said or done (and even begging for forgiveness) for this atonement to happen--to be broken open to the open heart and redirect our lives accordingly.
Such sweet, welcomed, piercing pain--that cracks us open--so that we can no longer bear to create unnecessary suffering for ourselves and others. How good it is when this shift begins to happen! Then, we're more and more compelled to be attentive and caring toward one another, and to live for the sake of our devotion to God and our common bond.
Thus, we can recognize (and yes, welcome) any difficulty or problem, disappointment or remorse as a great opportunity: to further extend our reach of the open heart and ever-deepen our settling into being home. Such is our trust in and surrender to What's always here, no matter what...And this unconditional love and faith is the grace, or true “silver lining” in life's many challenging moments we're bound to face.
This feels like another good time for some quiet...and sitting still, or stretching, or a brief walk outside, some deep breathing of fresh air--anything you'd like...We'll resume in 20 minutes or so.
I find it most useful to stop in any moment, and ask myself these kinds of questions: With our limited time here, in this human form and on this earth, how do we want to spend it? When we get out of bed every morning and for the rest of the day, why do what we do and for what ends? What do we really want; what really matters; what's our greatest longing? When these kinds of questions are alive in us, the consideration of what serves genuine happiness is greatly enhanced.
Yes...It's good to see in ourselves what we value the most and what really motivates us. Perhaps to make a decent living, and survive as best we're able are all any of us wants. Or maybe we're seeking to have more money and luxury; to be smarter, more successful, admired and popular; have perfect health, security and safety; greater status and power; the ideal partner and family; a fancier house; the most desirable body; the ultimate sexual experience; better drugs, or creative or spiritual highs; longer leisure, with more engaging hobbies and entertainment; greater physical strength, energy and longevity; a calm mind or more profound and inspirational experiences.
Any of the above has a place in this world and can be accompanied by truly enjoyable experiences. Certain desires help us fulfill certain needs, perpetuate our species, keep our stories full of dramatic twists and turns and the intrigue of wanting someone or something. And we do enjoy a good story...and the best ones can help us learn some important things in life.
And, as I've seen in my own life, any desire's aim can turn out being like “fool's gold” --as something that looks alluring and valuable on the surface, but fails to be the deeper satisfaction I might be seeking...It's clear, then, each of us must see this for ourselves--living and learning as we go.
Thus, as we make any improvements in our personal life and try to prosper in every conceivable way, it's best to know where our most genuine happiness abides. And thankfully, we can be certain that our heart's truth remains, whether or not we're appearing to succeed or fail at anything we do...As our occupations, our income, or our relationships, our looks or health might improve, or stay the same or even get worse—our Source-connection/Spirit-connection is always here to rest in and be most thoroughly nourished by.
And again, any aspect of our lives is enriched beyond measure by the serenity/the happiness of our being home. This is a way of being that mirrors what's at our innermost, and all that this open-heartedness loves to give. This, as I see it, is the true maximizing of our human potential.
I heard someone (I forgot who it was) say that, “Waking up and finding the nature of true contentment and well-being happens at the same time as we're being found.” ...It does seem that there's a miraculous commingling of our intention to discover “it,” and the grace sparking this interest and helping us consummate our deepest desire. Maybe just a sniff at first...then, just maybe, our inmost fragrance begins to be the air we breathe, wherever we are.
And for some of us, this grace comes in the form of dissatisfaction with certain parts of our lives; for others, there might be an overall sense of life lacking any depth of meaning or purpose. Or perhaps, we start to see things that once gave us moments of pleasure, distraction or excitement no longer doing it. “There must be something more to life,” we might exclaim, or a way to find what we're really looking for.
Isn't this the crux of what's going on: a gnawing sense of dislocation from genuine fulfillment and inner peace, and the crying out to be rejoined? ...How good, therefore, that indeed, absence can make us grow fonder, especially for our Source-connected/Spirit-connected home--where, as the greatest luck would also have it, we already are, in truth!
This certainty, of being home, is the essential matter; and until this is allowed to be the real foundation of our lives, conditional feelings of happiness are the best we can do...We've all experienced this, haven't we?--in seeming to be happy for a while, depending on circumstances, mental or emotional phenomena and so forth, and then, poof...one difficult encounter with someone or piece of bad news, and our pleasant thoughts and feelings are gone.
And thus, we can grow to depend on these pleasant circumstances to feel happy, even if it's only temporary...“if only” again--the weather were nicer, or I was treated better by others, or could get more inspired or excited by something or someone, and on and on. We each have our own version of this...If someone does treat us favorably, or something exciting or stimulating happens—we get a promotion at work, receive an award or an increase in profits—we might experience a surge in positive energy and are loving life. And if the opposite happens, or we lose something valuable or suffer great disappointment or frustration, we're down in a flash, as if our previous
