Simple insights for cultivating inner peace
Welcome to a space for exploration and insight. Here, we delve into the depths of self-inquiry, the wisdom of ancient philosophies, and practical approaches to mental well-being. Discover articles that inspire new perspectives and guide you towards lasting joy.
Self-love is letting go of the mental image called ME
Most of us are our biggest critics. As self-critics we judge and therefore “unlove” ourselves. We have been taught that this is how - one day - we will become whole: a responsible grown-up.
In truth, this is a sure recipe for suffering. We learn to contract rather than expand our awareness, and we cultivate fear instead of love.
It all starts with a core issue: we believe ourselves to be a mental image: the image that comes to mind when you define who you are. Mental images are fragile by default and require constant maintenance through feedback from our environment.
For most of us our identification has probably become so strong with who we think we are that shedding this image triggers fears of losing ourselves, ceasing to be ME.
Yet life only becomes full, constantly peaceful and joyous (opposed to the highs and lows most people experience) once we experimentally relinquish the idea of who we are (= we awaken).
When we awaken, we begin to embody sincerity, openness and compassion. Our life becomes our "work". No matter whether we serve hamburgers or run a corporation.
Living in the Now
Being present in the Now becomes the object of the mind when its value is recognized. As a result, the mind begins its quest to "achieve presence", to "learn to live in the now" as if it were just another mind activity. Over the decades we spend in our heads the belief that our mind must be a party to whatever state or activity becomes "our truth". The notion that the mind could be left out and we would exist without it is (almost) unimaginable. Yet this is the very thing one must accept - leaving the mind out of the equation - when one stops leaving the present moment.
Yes, leaving. We do not arrive at the Now, we stop leaving it through mind activity that is nothing more than pure imagination. Whether what we conceive of through our minds resembles "some reality" or not, it always is a distant derivative of true reality, Truth. Just like a tasty meal can only be experienced by the palate and never through its conceptual description (e.g. text on a menu), reality can only be lived without the reductionist, divisve activity of thought. Therefore, living in the Now is being free from thought, cultivating a mental silence so pure that it even makes one question what the word "mind" really means. Just a bundle of thoughts?
Being free from thought does not mean not having any thoughts, ever. Silence dawns when thought loses its might and becomes no more than a servant of the ever present "I". "I am" is truth, and anchored in this realization one may even allow thought to create glimpses of illusion and not get lost again.
The first step towards living in the Now:
Begin by gradually and persistently distrusting thought. Distrust positive and negative thoughts alike. Forgive and forget.
It is only belief in thought that has the power to prevent you from dwelling in the now. Notice that thoughts and feelings are seen, they are not you. Recognize the pause between them and dwell in that pause. It is in that silence where you find your essence with practice and perseverance.
Once your belief in your thoughts is weak enough, it will be easier to anchor your attention in silence.
Life is not meant to be a struggle
Obstacles are not to be overcome. "Bumpy roads" are not there to "stay strong". We are not here to fight.
We are here to reflect on our false beliefs about life, gain insight into our dysfunctional conditioning, and change course.
Most of us have simply accepted that life is hard sometimes. That joy and peace are mostly like a mirage. That "human nature" creates suffering.
What if life can be constant peace and joy? What if true human nature is inherently compassionate?
What if we need to question everything we believe to see through the veil of conditioning and indoctrination?
Can you, for a moment, consider that you might have been indoctrinated to be unhappy?
… if your answer is yes, and you would like guidance in transcending your conditioning, I am here to help.
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