What is a spiritual development coach? Most of us have questions like, why am I here? What's my purpose? What's my calling? Which way do I go now? Why has this happened to me? What does this mean? And these questions come about from our spiritual journey. So what's a spiritual development coach? Let's have a look:
A spiritual development coach is there to help you on your spiritual journey, to guide you and look at the answers you are asking. Ideally, the coach will be more of a mentor and mirror. The questions you ask won't be answered by the coach; they will help you find the answers.
The coach should be nonbiased and be able to refer to various religious and spiritual beliefs.
They should also be able to help break down goals into manageable steps and explore techniques, tasks & exercises relating to your journey.
The coach will endeavour to approach the subjects holistically, taking the perspective as a whole, to help gain the balance required.
A spiritual development coach, is not a counsellor, although some of the things you discuss will be in relation to your wellbeing.
The journey you go on with the coach will be reflective and you will be encouraged to keep a journal.
So why do I need a spiritual development coach? A coach will help you approach the points you raise from different angles, which you may not necessarily see by yourself. They help polish the mirror, so you can see yourself more clearly.
The coach will not tell you what to do, won't preach to you, and will not ask you to do anything you do not want to do. They will not tell you who you are. Also your sessions will be confidential.
Overall, the coach is there to talk & walk with you along your spiritual journey, be a guide and friend, who you can approach with confidence.
Sougen. 🙏
Monday 29 June 2015
Saturday 27 June 2015
All is One?
You may recall an article I wrote recently, 'Can the future affect the past?' in which I looked at photons and how they can be both wave and particle. Well, I am still fascinated by this idea and wonder if they exist in both states all the time, or if it makes a choice to be one or the other. I suspect that we will more than likely never know, unless studies and research can discern otherwise.
My thoughts around this relate to the idea of ourselves being able to be in two states, namely corporeal and non-corporeal, or spirit. The idea of form has long been an issue, moreover the qualities that define form. Great thinkers since the ancient Greeks, if not before, have debated this. Even the likes of Rene Descartes had ideas regarding form, body & mind, as in Cartesian Dualism. However, if we have two forms, can we choose between them, to assume the required state at will? Answering this will go someway towards understanding if photons can change at will.
Are we both mind & body, or soul & body? Or are they things which we can choose to be? One of the lines of enquiry I have explored is the Hindu idea of Advaita, which is where all things are one. To try and explain this, I'll use this example: there's a piece of paper and being good at origami, you create a swan. Then you undo that and make a cat. Unravelling the cat, you make a flower. After admiring the flower, you flatten the paper back into its original state, then make a ball out of it and throw it in the bin. Advaita suggests that the, the swan, cat, flower and ball are all the same, due to them having the same common components, which in this case is the paper. Likewise, we can say that all life has the same building blocks (i.e. like being carbon based) and so we are all the same, and all a part of each other. The form is identified as self, but when we look deeper we realise we are at one with the moon, stars, plants, fish, sea, air and fire. So, seeing through this 'illusion' helps realise we are all one, as we remove the self/identity. As in the example of the paper, the swan, cat and flower are all the same, when they lose their identity, and the idea of being a swan is seen by the swan as 'illusion.'
So, in short, are the soul and body one thing, and the idea of them being separate a delusion? Is the photon both particle and wave, so the idea of it being in two states an illusion?
In spiritual circles, there are often two competing ideas, dualism and monism. Is there good and bad, or just merely actions? Are there two parts, are they separate? One aspect is interesting, that we are all made up of the same DNA or RNA, but subtle differences mean I'm not a mushroom, so to this degree that is true. However, the self of the mushroom is not the same self as me. The idea of self/identity is not illusion, but merely a way if defining the object and to establish differing points of view.
Personally, I think that our body and spirit are the same in nature and identity, both existing simultaneously. Yes, I have the same basic elements as all things, but I am not all things. An interesting leverate or syllogism occurs here; I am like a tree - but all trees are not like me, or I am all things but all things are not me. Can I choose to be a tree, a bee, a rose? Can I choose which state I exist in whether soul or body? Can I exist as both states at the same time? Can I be both rose & myself? The various schools of shamanism suggest we can assume the identity, or be at one with the soaring eagle, the buffalo and the wolf. However, will these questions regarding our state be answered by science? I do not know, but various spiritual paths suggest we can.
Another interesting aspect regarding oneness relates to consciousness; is my consciousness unique or is it the same as yours, hers, his, the universe's? Can we choose a consciousness to be as or are we being in those conscious states all at the same time? It would be a little like knowing the mind of God. So there's another aspect to consider.
My opinion is that we share the same properties as all existing things do. In essence, we are all the same but with each our own identity and consciousness. Our eyes are a bit like windows through which God/the universe looks at life. I also perceive that is also a need for identity, hence the idea of self. Also, I believe that we can be at one with the universe, life, etc especially when in states of contemplations or meditation. These are only my considered beliefs.
I'd like to finish with these final thoughts: can we choose which state we are in (body/soul) or are we in both states simultaneously? And here's an excerpt from the Ashtavakra Gita.
"The universe is but a thought in Consciousness. In reality it is nothing.
One who sees the True Nature of existence and non-existence never ceases to exist. The Self, which is Absolute, Effortless, Timeless and Immaculate, is without limits and at no distance from you. You are forever It."
I like this writing as I find it thought provoking, but it begs an answer, to know in whose consciousness is the universe a thought? Is it a result of our collective thoughts? Just thought I'd leave this with you.
Peace
My thoughts around this relate to the idea of ourselves being able to be in two states, namely corporeal and non-corporeal, or spirit. The idea of form has long been an issue, moreover the qualities that define form. Great thinkers since the ancient Greeks, if not before, have debated this. Even the likes of Rene Descartes had ideas regarding form, body & mind, as in Cartesian Dualism. However, if we have two forms, can we choose between them, to assume the required state at will? Answering this will go someway towards understanding if photons can change at will.
Are we both mind & body, or soul & body? Or are they things which we can choose to be? One of the lines of enquiry I have explored is the Hindu idea of Advaita, which is where all things are one. To try and explain this, I'll use this example: there's a piece of paper and being good at origami, you create a swan. Then you undo that and make a cat. Unravelling the cat, you make a flower. After admiring the flower, you flatten the paper back into its original state, then make a ball out of it and throw it in the bin. Advaita suggests that the, the swan, cat, flower and ball are all the same, due to them having the same common components, which in this case is the paper. Likewise, we can say that all life has the same building blocks (i.e. like being carbon based) and so we are all the same, and all a part of each other. The form is identified as self, but when we look deeper we realise we are at one with the moon, stars, plants, fish, sea, air and fire. So, seeing through this 'illusion' helps realise we are all one, as we remove the self/identity. As in the example of the paper, the swan, cat and flower are all the same, when they lose their identity, and the idea of being a swan is seen by the swan as 'illusion.'
So, in short, are the soul and body one thing, and the idea of them being separate a delusion? Is the photon both particle and wave, so the idea of it being in two states an illusion?
In spiritual circles, there are often two competing ideas, dualism and monism. Is there good and bad, or just merely actions? Are there two parts, are they separate? One aspect is interesting, that we are all made up of the same DNA or RNA, but subtle differences mean I'm not a mushroom, so to this degree that is true. However, the self of the mushroom is not the same self as me. The idea of self/identity is not illusion, but merely a way if defining the object and to establish differing points of view.
Personally, I think that our body and spirit are the same in nature and identity, both existing simultaneously. Yes, I have the same basic elements as all things, but I am not all things. An interesting leverate or syllogism occurs here; I am like a tree - but all trees are not like me, or I am all things but all things are not me. Can I choose to be a tree, a bee, a rose? Can I choose which state I exist in whether soul or body? Can I exist as both states at the same time? Can I be both rose & myself? The various schools of shamanism suggest we can assume the identity, or be at one with the soaring eagle, the buffalo and the wolf. However, will these questions regarding our state be answered by science? I do not know, but various spiritual paths suggest we can.
Another interesting aspect regarding oneness relates to consciousness; is my consciousness unique or is it the same as yours, hers, his, the universe's? Can we choose a consciousness to be as or are we being in those conscious states all at the same time? It would be a little like knowing the mind of God. So there's another aspect to consider.
My opinion is that we share the same properties as all existing things do. In essence, we are all the same but with each our own identity and consciousness. Our eyes are a bit like windows through which God/the universe looks at life. I also perceive that is also a need for identity, hence the idea of self. Also, I believe that we can be at one with the universe, life, etc especially when in states of contemplations or meditation. These are only my considered beliefs.
I'd like to finish with these final thoughts: can we choose which state we are in (body/soul) or are we in both states simultaneously? And here's an excerpt from the Ashtavakra Gita.
"The universe is but a thought in Consciousness. In reality it is nothing.
One who sees the True Nature of existence and non-existence never ceases to exist. The Self, which is Absolute, Effortless, Timeless and Immaculate, is without limits and at no distance from you. You are forever It."
I like this writing as I find it thought provoking, but it begs an answer, to know in whose consciousness is the universe a thought? Is it a result of our collective thoughts? Just thought I'd leave this with you.
Peace
Monday 22 June 2015
Faith in action
The word faith is used in varied contexts. We express faith, we have faith in something, and there are acts of faith which is the area I would like to look at. Faith is a curious thing that has the ability to 'move mountains.' I, personally, have witnessed acts of faith that would be classed as miraculous.
The new testament of the Bible indicates that when 2/3 or more people are together and agree on something, it will happen. The collective wills of those who believe that what they ask for will happen bring about the required outcome. Christ indicates that what is agreed in these small groups will be agreed in his court/heaven. So what is it about faith that makes it work? What is it that makes the miraculous occur?
Faith is an unknown quantity that cannot be contained and I find it intriguing. It's power is often linked to prayer, and when answered can be overwhelming. If we have unwavering faith in knowing something will happen, and then it does, this encourages the faithful believer. There are some people who say that the results of prayer are coincidental, but I recall an experiment carried out in the US where they 'tested' the power of prayer. There were two groups of people, all of whom were ill to some degree. One group were prayed for, the other weren't. Both groups were aware that some of them would be prayed for. The results of the experiment suggested that those who had been prayed for recovered more quickly than the others. It was not a religious experiment where a god/God was being assessed, or whether one god was better than another, it was a test of the power of prayer. Those who had been prayed for showed remarkable improvement and the results were looked at. The assessment involved analysing the knowledge that the patient was being prayed for: was it the knowledge that they were being prayed for that helped their condition or was it that receiving the collective good will of people made them better? The results were inconclusive, but there was no denying that prayer worked.
I can recall events when I prayed and the outcome turned out as requested, which reinforced my faith. The feeling was wonderful and I was thankful. I do wonder if we have an ability or access to a power, for want of a better word, that is granted to us. Maybe faith is like the force that the Star Wars films mention. I can imagine faith being attributed to each one of us and when two or more people use their collective faith in unity, the power is magnified. Ghandi reiterated a statement from the Bible, "If you have faith, you can move mountains." Christ says our faith can be as small as a mustard seed, yet mighty. I also believe that although there's power of faith at an individual level, there is a greater resource of this reserved for God's use alone.
We should not put God to the test, but I encourage you to put faith in to action. Pray for people, situations and over events. Use your faith actively. Are there any rules? I believe there are:
Don't go against the Way
Don't be selfish with it
Don't use it to cause harm
Use it for good causes
Work with it
Be aware of other factors
Realise it's not you doing it!
[When I mention being aware of other factors, I am referring to things like weather; Eg. It has to rain as it's beneficial to the land.]
Faith is magical and use it wisely. To use faith is not an act of hope, it's an act of knowing that it will happen. It's like acknowledging that it has already happened in your mind's eye. There will be times when the desired outcome does not occur and you will wonder why, so don't let these times knock you, but understand there are things unseen that we do not know about, other events unfolding which have their course to follow. Then there is the way of things. You cannot go against the Way. There is a natural order. So finding the balance between acts of faith and understanding the Way is important. As you become more aware of this balance, you will begin to awaken to the true nature of things. Understanding this is a pivotal point in your spiritual development.
So practice faith, sharing good will, praying for others and, "May the force be with you."
The new testament of the Bible indicates that when 2/3 or more people are together and agree on something, it will happen. The collective wills of those who believe that what they ask for will happen bring about the required outcome. Christ indicates that what is agreed in these small groups will be agreed in his court/heaven. So what is it about faith that makes it work? What is it that makes the miraculous occur?
Faith is an unknown quantity that cannot be contained and I find it intriguing. It's power is often linked to prayer, and when answered can be overwhelming. If we have unwavering faith in knowing something will happen, and then it does, this encourages the faithful believer. There are some people who say that the results of prayer are coincidental, but I recall an experiment carried out in the US where they 'tested' the power of prayer. There were two groups of people, all of whom were ill to some degree. One group were prayed for, the other weren't. Both groups were aware that some of them would be prayed for. The results of the experiment suggested that those who had been prayed for recovered more quickly than the others. It was not a religious experiment where a god/God was being assessed, or whether one god was better than another, it was a test of the power of prayer. Those who had been prayed for showed remarkable improvement and the results were looked at. The assessment involved analysing the knowledge that the patient was being prayed for: was it the knowledge that they were being prayed for that helped their condition or was it that receiving the collective good will of people made them better? The results were inconclusive, but there was no denying that prayer worked.
I can recall events when I prayed and the outcome turned out as requested, which reinforced my faith. The feeling was wonderful and I was thankful. I do wonder if we have an ability or access to a power, for want of a better word, that is granted to us. Maybe faith is like the force that the Star Wars films mention. I can imagine faith being attributed to each one of us and when two or more people use their collective faith in unity, the power is magnified. Ghandi reiterated a statement from the Bible, "If you have faith, you can move mountains." Christ says our faith can be as small as a mustard seed, yet mighty. I also believe that although there's power of faith at an individual level, there is a greater resource of this reserved for God's use alone.
We should not put God to the test, but I encourage you to put faith in to action. Pray for people, situations and over events. Use your faith actively. Are there any rules? I believe there are:
Don't go against the Way
Don't be selfish with it
Don't use it to cause harm
Use it for good causes
Work with it
Be aware of other factors
Realise it's not you doing it!
[When I mention being aware of other factors, I am referring to things like weather; Eg. It has to rain as it's beneficial to the land.]
Faith is magical and use it wisely. To use faith is not an act of hope, it's an act of knowing that it will happen. It's like acknowledging that it has already happened in your mind's eye. There will be times when the desired outcome does not occur and you will wonder why, so don't let these times knock you, but understand there are things unseen that we do not know about, other events unfolding which have their course to follow. Then there is the way of things. You cannot go against the Way. There is a natural order. So finding the balance between acts of faith and understanding the Way is important. As you become more aware of this balance, you will begin to awaken to the true nature of things. Understanding this is a pivotal point in your spiritual development.
So practice faith, sharing good will, praying for others and, "May the force be with you."
Saturday 20 June 2015
Can the future affect the past?
Recent experiments in quantum physics indicate that the future affects the past.
The Double Slit test indicates that light is both a particle and a wave, and that light chooses its outcome of going through the slits according to whether or not it is observed. An adaptation was included, so that the second barrier/slit would be introduced at random, without an observer being present, but it was recorded by equipment used to observe the experiment. However, the same results were recorded each time, which indicated, "the particle's path affects its past decision about which path to take" (Tim Wogan, physicsworld.com) If you would like to read more on the double split test, follow the hyperlink at the bottom of this post.
So, a few questions arise but the one I'd like to ask is, does this mean we live in a predetermined universe and there is no free will? Moreover, does a future result affect a decision made in the past? Surely it should be the other way around and our decisions determine our future. The issue is also something that is debated in spiritual circles, is God an interventionist or does God allow free will? But is it this simple question? I believe not.
The experiment indicates that the route of the particle is determined by knowing the outcome. So the decision is made in future and sent back to the original position so it gets to the required outcome. The choice to get to the other side is made not in the present, but in the future.
The photon can exist in two states, wave and particle. Whether or not it makes a conscious choice to choose between which state it desires to be will probably remain unknown, so we cannot assume it has choice or is both states at the same time.
If the photon is simultaneously existing in both states then regardless of the obstacles it will always reach its desired destination. If the photon has to choose which state to become, it implies that it is sentient and has free will, the beauty of choice.
"Why am I explaining this?" you are asking yourself. The reason is this: do we exist in more than one state? And with the decisions we make, are we making them in the future?
If we make decisions in the future, our idea of time will be inverted. Our past is the future and our perception of time moving forward is unique to us, when actually we are moving backwards.
In regard to my first question, if we have two states and the possibility of choosing which state to be in, does this substantiate the notion we have souls/spirits?
In my mind, it seems like our soul is another state we exist in which can observe and help us make decisions as it is not contained by time, as we perceive it in our corporeal sense. In terms of the spirit, it experiences past, present and future all at the same time.
With reference to God, could this new discovery substantiate the idea of God being in body and spirit? Could we say 'God is what God is,' as well as body and spirit, like in the Christian trinity?
In terms of the universe and creation, could the double split test infer the creation is in the end of the universe? Is it like T S Eliot says, in his poem East Coker,'In my beginning is my end'?
It surely is something to think about.
Addendum:
In a previous post, "Why do we need God?' I mention that the questions, do we need God and do we need time, are the same. We know the future exists, but are unsure of its properties and whether or not it affects our choices. Likewise, we can say God exists but are unsure of God's properties and whether or not God affects our choices.
Double Split Test link:
http://physicsworld.com/cws/article/news/2015/may/26/do-atoms-going-through-a-double-slit-know-if-they-are-being-observed
The Double Slit test indicates that light is both a particle and a wave, and that light chooses its outcome of going through the slits according to whether or not it is observed. An adaptation was included, so that the second barrier/slit would be introduced at random, without an observer being present, but it was recorded by equipment used to observe the experiment. However, the same results were recorded each time, which indicated, "the particle's path affects its past decision about which path to take" (Tim Wogan, physicsworld.com) If you would like to read more on the double split test, follow the hyperlink at the bottom of this post.
So, a few questions arise but the one I'd like to ask is, does this mean we live in a predetermined universe and there is no free will? Moreover, does a future result affect a decision made in the past? Surely it should be the other way around and our decisions determine our future. The issue is also something that is debated in spiritual circles, is God an interventionist or does God allow free will? But is it this simple question? I believe not.
The experiment indicates that the route of the particle is determined by knowing the outcome. So the decision is made in future and sent back to the original position so it gets to the required outcome. The choice to get to the other side is made not in the present, but in the future.
The photon can exist in two states, wave and particle. Whether or not it makes a conscious choice to choose between which state it desires to be will probably remain unknown, so we cannot assume it has choice or is both states at the same time.
If the photon is simultaneously existing in both states then regardless of the obstacles it will always reach its desired destination. If the photon has to choose which state to become, it implies that it is sentient and has free will, the beauty of choice.
"Why am I explaining this?" you are asking yourself. The reason is this: do we exist in more than one state? And with the decisions we make, are we making them in the future?
If we make decisions in the future, our idea of time will be inverted. Our past is the future and our perception of time moving forward is unique to us, when actually we are moving backwards.
In regard to my first question, if we have two states and the possibility of choosing which state to be in, does this substantiate the notion we have souls/spirits?
In my mind, it seems like our soul is another state we exist in which can observe and help us make decisions as it is not contained by time, as we perceive it in our corporeal sense. In terms of the spirit, it experiences past, present and future all at the same time.
With reference to God, could this new discovery substantiate the idea of God being in body and spirit? Could we say 'God is what God is,' as well as body and spirit, like in the Christian trinity?
In terms of the universe and creation, could the double split test infer the creation is in the end of the universe? Is it like T S Eliot says, in his poem East Coker,'In my beginning is my end'?
It surely is something to think about.
Addendum:
In a previous post, "Why do we need God?' I mention that the questions, do we need God and do we need time, are the same. We know the future exists, but are unsure of its properties and whether or not it affects our choices. Likewise, we can say God exists but are unsure of God's properties and whether or not God affects our choices.
Double Split Test link:
http://physicsworld.com/cws/article/news/2015/may/26/do-atoms-going-through-a-double-slit-know-if-they-are-being-observed
Friday 19 June 2015
Why do we need God?
Why do we need God? I was asked this question by someone after writing a blog article. I didn't answer, but explained it had inspired me to write an article about it. So I've been thinking about this. When looking at other answers, from other people, faiths and perspectives, there is no distinct answer. People tend to explain the benefits of knowing God, rather than answering why we need God. And when I stopped and thought about it, it is difficult to answer. It's a bit like asking why does a flower need the sunlight?
My Dad mentioned, "It's like asking why do we need a father?" So why do we?
To my mind, this question takes us back to the dawn of humankind. Whether or not you believe in evolution, there came a point when humankind became consciously aware of their environment and sought answers. The ideas they had are well known as passed down via the Torah, Bible, Enuma Elish, Rig Veda, Upanishads, the Tao, amongst many other ideas and writings. Many of the perceptions are similar, and I don't want to digress, for that is an article in itself. However, we have to consider the time and environment when those thoughts were in their infancy, even before being written down. If we were to write something now to explain creation, within our contemporary settings, as if we were suddenly aware right now, with technology around us, what would we ask? Why am I here? Where did the Blu Ray player come from? How did we get silicon chips? Why are these things here? Who put the sky there? How did all this come about? So regardless of the time or setting, we would always have these questions.
The crucial, pivotal point is, I believe, the moment we seek answers in relation to our awakening consciousness as a race. Changes occur over time, like declining types of animals, changes in weather patterns and the morphing of landscapes. Ice comes and goes, droughts, darkened skies from possible celestial impacts and/or volcanic activity. Then someone asks, "Why?" This then leads to seeking any connection between events. At some point another person thinks,"I wonder... If I ask for this [ ___ ] to change/stop, will it?" (The blank could filled in by weather, land, situation, disease, etc.) Then, there appears to be a response, and it is an answer. For example, you pray for rain and it happens. From this, three schools emerge; belief, superstition and coincidence. The believers believe, ask/pray and get answers. The superstitious try to recreate the same conditions to stimulate a response. The non-believers see it all as coincidence, a fortunate happenstance.
So what is my point here? We want to know, to ask, to find the answers. One could say that the schools mentioned before can be consolidated into two areas, faith and science. However, we have scientists who have faith and for many years science has been investigated by different faiths. Both schools seek answers. In our contemporary setting, science can aid the atheist's opinion and faith/God aids the opinions of the believers. We can only explain a tiny amount of what we observe and understand and science helps us investigate many aspects, but compared to what is out in the cosmos we know very little. Many theories exist and they are only ideas, conjecture, possibilities. So we ask lots of questions to seek answers so we can know for sure. Like children we constantly ask, 'Why...?" So non-believers look to science for answers, whereas believers look to God for answers. However, the two are interchangeable.
At one level we could say that we need God to answer the questions. On another level it could be suggested that we need God to understand our place in the universe, help define our purpose. One may say we need God as the ever present provider. It could also be said that, in comparison to the parent/child relationship, we need God as our parent. After all, the Bible suggests we should be as children, to receive God's kingdom. Rabindranath Tagore said, "Every child comes with the message that God is not yet discouraged of man," & “From the solemn gloom of the temple children run out to sit in the dust, God watches them play and forgets the priest."
The institutions of religion need God but what about the individual? Everyone has their own perspective on who or what God is and how they need / do not need God. As for myself, I believe we need God to help us understand our place and purpose, to provide for us and as Saint Teresa of Ávila wrote,
“[God] has no body now on earth but yours,
no hands but yours,
no feet but yours,
Yours are the eyes through which to look out [God's] compassion to the world
Yours are the feet with which he is to go about doing good;
Yours are the hands with which he is to bless men now."
I also think we are all part of God, each of us a vehicle to view existence in this realm. Through our many eyes God looks on at events.
So, going back to the original question, "Why do we need God?" can we actually find an answer? Do we need God?
Just for a moment, I'd like to compare God to time. Without time, everything would happen at once, so time is present so there is some kind of order. Time is also relative, and one body can observe time at a different rate to another, yet both observation points observe the same event, and my point is that God observes things from one point of view and we view things from another, yet both witness the same events. In this example, God is time, as well as being a viewer of time; time being like a string of continuity. So the same question arises here, do we need time? As I write this article, experiments in quantum physics indicate that the future affects the past, which indicates a predetermined future and no free will, an argument that has been going on for a long time. We know we have choice, but do we? Has the future outcome affected our choice even though we are unaware of it? In a realistic sense, we make conscious decisions but also acknowledge that we don't know the outcome, such as "I know I will have dinner, but what I'll have to eat has not been chosen."
Now, you are probably asking why I have taken a detour here in this post, but here is why. The questions, do we need God and do we need time, are the same. We know the future exists, but are unsure of its properties and whether or not it affects our choices. Likewise, we can say God exists but are unsure of God's properties and whether or not God affects our choices.
So, why do we need God? Only time will tell.
My Dad mentioned, "It's like asking why do we need a father?" So why do we?
To my mind, this question takes us back to the dawn of humankind. Whether or not you believe in evolution, there came a point when humankind became consciously aware of their environment and sought answers. The ideas they had are well known as passed down via the Torah, Bible, Enuma Elish, Rig Veda, Upanishads, the Tao, amongst many other ideas and writings. Many of the perceptions are similar, and I don't want to digress, for that is an article in itself. However, we have to consider the time and environment when those thoughts were in their infancy, even before being written down. If we were to write something now to explain creation, within our contemporary settings, as if we were suddenly aware right now, with technology around us, what would we ask? Why am I here? Where did the Blu Ray player come from? How did we get silicon chips? Why are these things here? Who put the sky there? How did all this come about? So regardless of the time or setting, we would always have these questions.
The crucial, pivotal point is, I believe, the moment we seek answers in relation to our awakening consciousness as a race. Changes occur over time, like declining types of animals, changes in weather patterns and the morphing of landscapes. Ice comes and goes, droughts, darkened skies from possible celestial impacts and/or volcanic activity. Then someone asks, "Why?" This then leads to seeking any connection between events. At some point another person thinks,"I wonder... If I ask for this [ ___ ] to change/stop, will it?" (The blank could filled in by weather, land, situation, disease, etc.) Then, there appears to be a response, and it is an answer. For example, you pray for rain and it happens. From this, three schools emerge; belief, superstition and coincidence. The believers believe, ask/pray and get answers. The superstitious try to recreate the same conditions to stimulate a response. The non-believers see it all as coincidence, a fortunate happenstance.
So what is my point here? We want to know, to ask, to find the answers. One could say that the schools mentioned before can be consolidated into two areas, faith and science. However, we have scientists who have faith and for many years science has been investigated by different faiths. Both schools seek answers. In our contemporary setting, science can aid the atheist's opinion and faith/God aids the opinions of the believers. We can only explain a tiny amount of what we observe and understand and science helps us investigate many aspects, but compared to what is out in the cosmos we know very little. Many theories exist and they are only ideas, conjecture, possibilities. So we ask lots of questions to seek answers so we can know for sure. Like children we constantly ask, 'Why...?" So non-believers look to science for answers, whereas believers look to God for answers. However, the two are interchangeable.
At one level we could say that we need God to answer the questions. On another level it could be suggested that we need God to understand our place in the universe, help define our purpose. One may say we need God as the ever present provider. It could also be said that, in comparison to the parent/child relationship, we need God as our parent. After all, the Bible suggests we should be as children, to receive God's kingdom. Rabindranath Tagore said, "Every child comes with the message that God is not yet discouraged of man," & “From the solemn gloom of the temple children run out to sit in the dust, God watches them play and forgets the priest."
The institutions of religion need God but what about the individual? Everyone has their own perspective on who or what God is and how they need / do not need God. As for myself, I believe we need God to help us understand our place and purpose, to provide for us and as Saint Teresa of Ávila wrote,
“[God] has no body now on earth but yours,
no hands but yours,
no feet but yours,
Yours are the eyes through which to look out [God's] compassion to the world
Yours are the feet with which he is to go about doing good;
Yours are the hands with which he is to bless men now."
I also think we are all part of God, each of us a vehicle to view existence in this realm. Through our many eyes God looks on at events.
So, going back to the original question, "Why do we need God?" can we actually find an answer? Do we need God?
Just for a moment, I'd like to compare God to time. Without time, everything would happen at once, so time is present so there is some kind of order. Time is also relative, and one body can observe time at a different rate to another, yet both observation points observe the same event, and my point is that God observes things from one point of view and we view things from another, yet both witness the same events. In this example, God is time, as well as being a viewer of time; time being like a string of continuity. So the same question arises here, do we need time? As I write this article, experiments in quantum physics indicate that the future affects the past, which indicates a predetermined future and no free will, an argument that has been going on for a long time. We know we have choice, but do we? Has the future outcome affected our choice even though we are unaware of it? In a realistic sense, we make conscious decisions but also acknowledge that we don't know the outcome, such as "I know I will have dinner, but what I'll have to eat has not been chosen."
Now, you are probably asking why I have taken a detour here in this post, but here is why. The questions, do we need God and do we need time, are the same. We know the future exists, but are unsure of its properties and whether or not it affects our choices. Likewise, we can say God exists but are unsure of God's properties and whether or not God affects our choices.
So, why do we need God? Only time will tell.
Thursday 18 June 2015
Living Words
Many people are probably aware of John's testimony of Christ, that he was the Word in the flesh, but have you considered what a living word is?
Many people talk of ideologies and morals, talk wisely and promote kindness and compassion, but it is necessary to practice what one preaches. It is by doing what we say that people see our actions. It does not always have to be grand gestures, but small things.
Regardless of creed, colour or race, we can all make a difference. By assisting people, our actions speak a common language, that of kindness and compassion. This universal language breaks down barriers. By doing rather than preaching, we set an example.
So we too can be living words.
"And the Word became flesh."
Many people talk of ideologies and morals, talk wisely and promote kindness and compassion, but it is necessary to practice what one preaches. It is by doing what we say that people see our actions. It does not always have to be grand gestures, but small things.
Regardless of creed, colour or race, we can all make a difference. By assisting people, our actions speak a common language, that of kindness and compassion. This universal language breaks down barriers. By doing rather than preaching, we set an example.
So we too can be living words.
"And the Word became flesh."
About enlightenment
The old Zen proverb says, 'Before enlightenment, chopping wood and carrying water. After enlightenment, chopping wood and carrying water.'
And Basho was right. Just because you may have experienced bodhi, kensho or satori, does not mean everything changes, life changes or otherwise. All that changes is you, or your perception of things (according to what you define as enlightenment) and what you do as a result of this.
So what's the point of it then? Arguably, there is no point. If you think have gained it, then you haven't. If you think it's yours, it isn't; and this is why one does not attain it, but merely experiences it. The enlightenment experience will be unique to each of you.
Famously, Siddhartha Gautama became Buddha after his awakening, his enlightenment. People are reported to have noticed his awakening. But was it a visual difference or something about his 'aura'? Whatever it was, people noticed it then and now due to his teachings.
There has been a long debate over whether enlightenment is a gradual or sudden process. In particular, the Zen/Chan schools debated this for years. Ma-Tsu is ostensibly the originator of the 'sudden' school of enlightenment and by use of non sequitur questioning, shouts of "Ho!" & hitting people, tried to jolt students in to enlightenment. Ma-Tsu is one of my favourite Zen patriarchs, although rather slapstick. However, his techniques do what is required to gain awakening, just as the koans do. Many people don't understand koans, especially those who have little understanding of Zen Buddhism, but they are meant to trigger a response which is inline with our original nature, or Buddha nature. However, unless you know what you are looking for, you won't find the answer, hence the general public's perception of koans. Bearing these things in mind, our original nature is said to know all things, yet not know them, which is Buddha nature. To briefly explain, we learn from a young age how to do many things which become instinctive. We are not consciously learning these things, but are aware that we know them. So enlightenment is like this; we are already enlightened yet not consciously aware that we are. So whether we become enlightened gradually or suddenly is a huge debate.
People of any persuasion can become enlightened; it's not just for Buddhists. Zoroaster had an experience of it, so did Patanjali, Sai Baba, Osho, Adyashanti, David Hoffmeister, Nirmala, amongst many others. In fact, there are many enlightened minds in the world who are not famous and live with us in our everyday lives.
Enlightenment itself is an awakening, realisation of things, understanding interconnectedness of things which cannot be translated or conferred upon someone. It is something that happens to you. Each experience is unique but they do have common traits. Amongst the metaphors to describe enlightenment, are the following:
Peace, tranquillity, insight, understanding, connection, transcendental, at-one-ness, overwhelming love.
For some people, enlightenment will be a gradual process leading to that moment of clarity, whereas others will experience it suddenly, whether it be within meditation or contemplation, or whilst involved in an activity.
It is common to think and ask, "So, what happens next?" after that experience, hence the opening quote from Basho, 'Before enlightenment, chopping wood and carrying water. After enlightenment, chopping wood and carrying water.' What you do as a result of that revelation is an example of how it has impacted on you. The one thing I would stress is the importance of keeping a 'beginner's mind.' Shunruyi Suzuki deals with this idea very well and I encourage you to read his work. In short, never think you know it all. If you become big headed and a show off, people won't think you're enlightened, but an idiot, because you will have increased your ego and not diminished it. By having a 'beginner's mind,' you will continue to ask questions and learn, be inquisitive, be open minded and not of fixed opinion.
If you do experience enlightenment, try to recall what was happening before that moment. Also, after the experience, you may find you have a burst of creativity.
So is enlightenment for you? It's for anyone. As a Buddhist may say, "We all have Buddha nature." As the psalmist and St Paul said, "Awake, o' sleeper..."
A Zen proverb says, "Where there is great doubt, there will be great awakening; small doubt, small awakening, no doubt, no awakening," & Dogen said, "There is no beginning to practice nor end to enlightenment; There is no beginning to enlightenment nor end to practice."
If I can help, please feel free to contact me at Sougen.roshi@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------
A bit about my enlightenment.
From my experiences, I realised that what I initially considered my enlightenment, was in fact kensho, a small insight. For myself, this involved understanding the interconnectedness of things. It occurred when I was 39 years old. Three years later, at 42, I experienced satori, a deeper, more profound understanding, which was as enlightenment. It was a sudden realisation, after a series of contemplations where I asked certain questions. What was curious regarding my experiences, is that I am a Christian and I'd never heard of Christians experiencing enlightenment. So I talked to people and did research. I also asked, "So, what happens next?" and found that it took a while to find the path I should follow. For myself it related to bringing my spiritual life in to the secular environment. How I react and perform within society is a reflection of what I have learnt. It is a bit like being a doctor to humankind. Lessons from the Bible, the life of Christ, the teachings & life of Buddha, Sikh philosophy, Taoism and practicing Zen all can be translated into everyday actions. These things impacted on me and in any given situation, spiritual lessons are there to be put into practice, and this is what I do. You may think this is an obvious thing to do, but how many of the teachings you've received have you put into action? It's what I class as being a 'living word.' As a Christian may understand that Yeshua/Jesus was the, "word made flesh," so also are we called to be 'living words;' the action of compassion, love, a helping hand, benevolence, in a world where so many people hear pretty speeches but do not see them being put into action.
One of the other facets of enlightenment for myself was about accepting things as they are, not judging them. The only way I can try and explain my beliefs is relating to the term 'Zen-Christian,' although I am probably not seen as a typical Christian. I have practiced zazen for many years and see the common ground between Christianity, Buddhism, Taoism, Judaism, Sikhism and Islam. I don't pigeon hole my beliefs in any denomination and do not preach radical ideas of say that you have to be x,y or z. What I believe is what I believe. So this is the tip of the iceberg regarding my own experience regarding enlightenment. I hope that maybe by reading this, about my own experiences, you will understand a little better.
And Basho was right. Just because you may have experienced bodhi, kensho or satori, does not mean everything changes, life changes or otherwise. All that changes is you, or your perception of things (according to what you define as enlightenment) and what you do as a result of this.
So what's the point of it then? Arguably, there is no point. If you think have gained it, then you haven't. If you think it's yours, it isn't; and this is why one does not attain it, but merely experiences it. The enlightenment experience will be unique to each of you.
Famously, Siddhartha Gautama became Buddha after his awakening, his enlightenment. People are reported to have noticed his awakening. But was it a visual difference or something about his 'aura'? Whatever it was, people noticed it then and now due to his teachings.
There has been a long debate over whether enlightenment is a gradual or sudden process. In particular, the Zen/Chan schools debated this for years. Ma-Tsu is ostensibly the originator of the 'sudden' school of enlightenment and by use of non sequitur questioning, shouts of "Ho!" & hitting people, tried to jolt students in to enlightenment. Ma-Tsu is one of my favourite Zen patriarchs, although rather slapstick. However, his techniques do what is required to gain awakening, just as the koans do. Many people don't understand koans, especially those who have little understanding of Zen Buddhism, but they are meant to trigger a response which is inline with our original nature, or Buddha nature. However, unless you know what you are looking for, you won't find the answer, hence the general public's perception of koans. Bearing these things in mind, our original nature is said to know all things, yet not know them, which is Buddha nature. To briefly explain, we learn from a young age how to do many things which become instinctive. We are not consciously learning these things, but are aware that we know them. So enlightenment is like this; we are already enlightened yet not consciously aware that we are. So whether we become enlightened gradually or suddenly is a huge debate.
People of any persuasion can become enlightened; it's not just for Buddhists. Zoroaster had an experience of it, so did Patanjali, Sai Baba, Osho, Adyashanti, David Hoffmeister, Nirmala, amongst many others. In fact, there are many enlightened minds in the world who are not famous and live with us in our everyday lives.
Enlightenment itself is an awakening, realisation of things, understanding interconnectedness of things which cannot be translated or conferred upon someone. It is something that happens to you. Each experience is unique but they do have common traits. Amongst the metaphors to describe enlightenment, are the following:
Peace, tranquillity, insight, understanding, connection, transcendental, at-one-ness, overwhelming love.
For some people, enlightenment will be a gradual process leading to that moment of clarity, whereas others will experience it suddenly, whether it be within meditation or contemplation, or whilst involved in an activity.
It is common to think and ask, "So, what happens next?" after that experience, hence the opening quote from Basho, 'Before enlightenment, chopping wood and carrying water. After enlightenment, chopping wood and carrying water.' What you do as a result of that revelation is an example of how it has impacted on you. The one thing I would stress is the importance of keeping a 'beginner's mind.' Shunruyi Suzuki deals with this idea very well and I encourage you to read his work. In short, never think you know it all. If you become big headed and a show off, people won't think you're enlightened, but an idiot, because you will have increased your ego and not diminished it. By having a 'beginner's mind,' you will continue to ask questions and learn, be inquisitive, be open minded and not of fixed opinion.
If you do experience enlightenment, try to recall what was happening before that moment. Also, after the experience, you may find you have a burst of creativity.
So is enlightenment for you? It's for anyone. As a Buddhist may say, "We all have Buddha nature." As the psalmist and St Paul said, "Awake, o' sleeper..."
A Zen proverb says, "Where there is great doubt, there will be great awakening; small doubt, small awakening, no doubt, no awakening," & Dogen said, "There is no beginning to practice nor end to enlightenment; There is no beginning to enlightenment nor end to practice."
If I can help, please feel free to contact me at Sougen.roshi@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------
A bit about my enlightenment.
From my experiences, I realised that what I initially considered my enlightenment, was in fact kensho, a small insight. For myself, this involved understanding the interconnectedness of things. It occurred when I was 39 years old. Three years later, at 42, I experienced satori, a deeper, more profound understanding, which was as enlightenment. It was a sudden realisation, after a series of contemplations where I asked certain questions. What was curious regarding my experiences, is that I am a Christian and I'd never heard of Christians experiencing enlightenment. So I talked to people and did research. I also asked, "So, what happens next?" and found that it took a while to find the path I should follow. For myself it related to bringing my spiritual life in to the secular environment. How I react and perform within society is a reflection of what I have learnt. It is a bit like being a doctor to humankind. Lessons from the Bible, the life of Christ, the teachings & life of Buddha, Sikh philosophy, Taoism and practicing Zen all can be translated into everyday actions. These things impacted on me and in any given situation, spiritual lessons are there to be put into practice, and this is what I do. You may think this is an obvious thing to do, but how many of the teachings you've received have you put into action? It's what I class as being a 'living word.' As a Christian may understand that Yeshua/Jesus was the, "word made flesh," so also are we called to be 'living words;' the action of compassion, love, a helping hand, benevolence, in a world where so many people hear pretty speeches but do not see them being put into action.
One of the other facets of enlightenment for myself was about accepting things as they are, not judging them. The only way I can try and explain my beliefs is relating to the term 'Zen-Christian,' although I am probably not seen as a typical Christian. I have practiced zazen for many years and see the common ground between Christianity, Buddhism, Taoism, Judaism, Sikhism and Islam. I don't pigeon hole my beliefs in any denomination and do not preach radical ideas of say that you have to be x,y or z. What I believe is what I believe. So this is the tip of the iceberg regarding my own experience regarding enlightenment. I hope that maybe by reading this, about my own experiences, you will understand a little better.
Monday 8 June 2015
The diamond self
Each of us are multiple people. We are a son/daughter, a brother/sister, a father/mother, grandfather/grandmother. In any given situation, we react in one of these roles. All roles are connected. The people we grow up around influence our behaviours and we learn to be that role by observing them in that role.
A mother is also a daughter, a father is also a son. A grandmother is also a daughter and mother. A grandfather is also a son and father. Our responses are how we identify ourselves in each situation. Realising this, we can increase our empathy and identify with each role.
Next time you are in a family situation, be conscious of your responses and who you are being at that point.
A mother and daughter argue. The daughter sees only her perspective, but the mother unconsciously knows the daughter's perspective and mother's. If the mom was aware of the roles she is playing, empathy would arise and the mother would see things from a daughter's point of view, for the mother has been a daughter. Being able to recognise the point of view would decrease tension. The argument would still occur but the impact less severe, due to the mother realising she is both mother, daughter and grandmother.
We are all connected. Go in peace
A mother is also a daughter, a father is also a son. A grandmother is also a daughter and mother. A grandfather is also a son and father. Our responses are how we identify ourselves in each situation. Realising this, we can increase our empathy and identify with each role.
Next time you are in a family situation, be conscious of your responses and who you are being at that point.
A mother and daughter argue. The daughter sees only her perspective, but the mother unconsciously knows the daughter's perspective and mother's. If the mom was aware of the roles she is playing, empathy would arise and the mother would see things from a daughter's point of view, for the mother has been a daughter. Being able to recognise the point of view would decrease tension. The argument would still occur but the impact less severe, due to the mother realising she is both mother, daughter and grandmother.
We are all connected. Go in peace
Tuesday 2 June 2015
What is God?
What is God? It's a curious question. Many people have many ideas, and each faith has it's own understanding of God, and God's nature.
I suggest reading about it and related
subjects like Transcendental Idealism, Teleology, & God in relation to different religions. It may seem heavy at times, but there are plenty of books and websites that are easy to read. (I'd be careful when reading on Wikipedia though, but they often mention if articles need work.)
The origin of the word God, is unknown. Some people allude to an ancient Sanskrit word, 'hu,' meaning to invoke or call upon. Others think it is of Germanic origin, but this does not define God as in the type of being, God's nature and form.
Philosophy has many ideas about God, just as belief systems do also. There are pluralistic ideas, such as the ancient Greek and Roman pantheon, animistic ideas that god/gods are nature, animals, etc; dualistic ideas of God, monotheistic theologies, and the belief that we are gods or each individual is an expression of God. Some, like the Hindu, Christian& Jew, believe God is a being/deity and spirit. Is God a person? Many beliefs have the notion that God can take any form, or be part of a trinity, that is with equal merit on all 3 parts. Debaters such as Origen would suggest, along with other Arian thinkers, that there is a hierarchy. In Hinduism, there are trinities, such as the Shiva trimurthis. Many beliefs also consider God to be part of our realm, whereas others attribute him to be external. So, as you can see, there are many competing ideas and beliefs.
I often wonder if God is the universe, or creation itself. Is God inspiration, the creative thought? Does God have a form or shape? How does God communicate? How does God do things and go about God's work?
I am not answering the question but stimulating your thoughts. In my own opinion, God is. In a Zen-like way, God is what God is. As Moses intimated in the Bible/Tanakh, God says, 'I am what I am,' which, to my mind, sums up the deity neatly. I do believe in God. I also believe in God's Spirit, and God as Man. I believe the trinity helps us understand God's nature; God as God in personality, God's Spirit as the mind & God as Man, being able to interface with us at our level of understanding. I also think we do not have the facility to grasp what God is within our human minds, hence God's ability to be human.
I am not imposing my understanding upon you, but offering an opinion and different perspectives.
Peace
I suggest reading about it and related
subjects like Transcendental Idealism, Teleology, & God in relation to different religions. It may seem heavy at times, but there are plenty of books and websites that are easy to read. (I'd be careful when reading on Wikipedia though, but they often mention if articles need work.)
The origin of the word God, is unknown. Some people allude to an ancient Sanskrit word, 'hu,' meaning to invoke or call upon. Others think it is of Germanic origin, but this does not define God as in the type of being, God's nature and form.
Philosophy has many ideas about God, just as belief systems do also. There are pluralistic ideas, such as the ancient Greek and Roman pantheon, animistic ideas that god/gods are nature, animals, etc; dualistic ideas of God, monotheistic theologies, and the belief that we are gods or each individual is an expression of God. Some, like the Hindu, Christian& Jew, believe God is a being/deity and spirit. Is God a person? Many beliefs have the notion that God can take any form, or be part of a trinity, that is with equal merit on all 3 parts. Debaters such as Origen would suggest, along with other Arian thinkers, that there is a hierarchy. In Hinduism, there are trinities, such as the Shiva trimurthis. Many beliefs also consider God to be part of our realm, whereas others attribute him to be external. So, as you can see, there are many competing ideas and beliefs.
I often wonder if God is the universe, or creation itself. Is God inspiration, the creative thought? Does God have a form or shape? How does God communicate? How does God do things and go about God's work?
I am not answering the question but stimulating your thoughts. In my own opinion, God is. In a Zen-like way, God is what God is. As Moses intimated in the Bible/Tanakh, God says, 'I am what I am,' which, to my mind, sums up the deity neatly. I do believe in God. I also believe in God's Spirit, and God as Man. I believe the trinity helps us understand God's nature; God as God in personality, God's Spirit as the mind & God as Man, being able to interface with us at our level of understanding. I also think we do not have the facility to grasp what God is within our human minds, hence God's ability to be human.
I am not imposing my understanding upon you, but offering an opinion and different perspectives.
Peace
Monday 1 June 2015
The Quantum Self
You are in the universe and the universe is in you. By watching the universe, you're explaining where you come from. When the universe watches you, it sees what you can be.
The further inward you look, the larger the universe gets. The larger the outward universe seems, the smaller it becomes.
By not observing the universe it shows you everything. By observing the universe it tells you nothing.
I am who I am, it is what it is. I am everywhere and nowhere. How can I be in two places at once?
I am as a wave, yet also a particle. I am both. They are not different. They are me. I am in everyone, and everyone is in me.
Where there are gaps, spaces and time, these shrink the more I choose not to look. When I stare in wonder at those spaces, they increase, pushing things farther apart.
And by not looking, I'm at the start and see my future, my many guises and forms. Here all paths converge.
And what is my soul? The traveller in my skin; the memory filling the spaces in. You cannot see my soul, it seems to have no mass and like a shadow, it's almost dark. And this dark energy is pulling us apart. Yet my soul binds together all things that would be torn apart. It pushes and pulls, flexing its strings.
As for showing you more, I will, at the right time, when you understand you are, who I am.
The further inward you look, the larger the universe gets. The larger the outward universe seems, the smaller it becomes.
By not observing the universe it shows you everything. By observing the universe it tells you nothing.
I am who I am, it is what it is. I am everywhere and nowhere. How can I be in two places at once?
I am as a wave, yet also a particle. I am both. They are not different. They are me. I am in everyone, and everyone is in me.
Where there are gaps, spaces and time, these shrink the more I choose not to look. When I stare in wonder at those spaces, they increase, pushing things farther apart.
And by not looking, I'm at the start and see my future, my many guises and forms. Here all paths converge.
And what is my soul? The traveller in my skin; the memory filling the spaces in. You cannot see my soul, it seems to have no mass and like a shadow, it's almost dark. And this dark energy is pulling us apart. Yet my soul binds together all things that would be torn apart. It pushes and pulls, flexing its strings.
As for showing you more, I will, at the right time, when you understand you are, who I am.
Expressions of existence
All things are representative of other things. An atom Is a representation of the universe. A particle has many different forms, just as there is differentiation in people. A particle is also a wave, just as a wave on the sea is made up of different particles. All things have the same components its just they are placed in a different order. A fish has the same constituents as a plant, just as a human has the same constituents as a mouse. The diversity of things is an elegant display of how the building blocks of life can be seen.
You have a universe inside every cell of your being. These are interrelated to express your form. All things are interconnected. We are connected to all things. We are all expressions of existence.
My eyes are the sea, my skin the land. My blood the magma, my bones tectonic plates. My hairs are trees, my palms are deserts. My lungs are the air, my mouth sends out the wind. My mind is a galaxy of thought, in a universe of souls. My soul is in this expression of life. My life is one of many expressions of existence. My existence is one expression of the universe. My universe is an expression of an atom. My atoms are expressions of form. And they are the same as the earth I walk on and the water I bathe in; the food I eat and the air I breathe.
All things are one and the same. It is the hand that forms all things likes a wonderful array. A display of majesty of which the universe is a cabinet in which to place them on display. So who is looking at this?
You have a universe inside every cell of your being. These are interrelated to express your form. All things are interconnected. We are connected to all things. We are all expressions of existence.
My eyes are the sea, my skin the land. My blood the magma, my bones tectonic plates. My hairs are trees, my palms are deserts. My lungs are the air, my mouth sends out the wind. My mind is a galaxy of thought, in a universe of souls. My soul is in this expression of life. My life is one of many expressions of existence. My existence is one expression of the universe. My universe is an expression of an atom. My atoms are expressions of form. And they are the same as the earth I walk on and the water I bathe in; the food I eat and the air I breathe.
All things are one and the same. It is the hand that forms all things likes a wonderful array. A display of majesty of which the universe is a cabinet in which to place them on display. So who is looking at this?
The Quantum Mind
Our perception of time is relative, suggests Einstein. There is only ever one moment, the now, devoid of past and future. There is only the present. Quantum theory and String theory suggest many dimensions and a multiverse. So we can exist in many dimensions and parallel universes simultaneously.
Our brains are constructed of cells just as all of our bodies are. The mind is different to the brain. Our consciousness is not contained necessarily to our cells as we cannot pin point where it is located in the body or mind. Therefore, can we say that our consciousness is located purely here in this world, this time, this universe, this dimension?
If consciousness is devoid of mass and time, potentially our consciousness can be in all dimensions and universes. When we stop and observe only the now, the present, we can choose where to focus our mind, our consciousness. We can choose where our consciousness is. In some dimensions time may not exist, as we perceive it in this realm. Other realities will have existence but not as we perceive it.
If we do not have mass at the level of consciousness, then travel to other dimensions and universes will be possible. To reiterate, by focusing on the pure now, and opening our perception to be devoid of stereotypes, we can look into the other parallel universes and dimensions, as our consciousness is not associated to us at a cellular level. So open your mind, drop all preconceptions of existence and type, and explore.
Our brains are constructed of cells just as all of our bodies are. The mind is different to the brain. Our consciousness is not contained necessarily to our cells as we cannot pin point where it is located in the body or mind. Therefore, can we say that our consciousness is located purely here in this world, this time, this universe, this dimension?
If consciousness is devoid of mass and time, potentially our consciousness can be in all dimensions and universes. When we stop and observe only the now, the present, we can choose where to focus our mind, our consciousness. We can choose where our consciousness is. In some dimensions time may not exist, as we perceive it in this realm. Other realities will have existence but not as we perceive it.
If we do not have mass at the level of consciousness, then travel to other dimensions and universes will be possible. To reiterate, by focusing on the pure now, and opening our perception to be devoid of stereotypes, we can look into the other parallel universes and dimensions, as our consciousness is not associated to us at a cellular level. So open your mind, drop all preconceptions of existence and type, and explore.
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