Enlightenment: The Ego, what is it? How to transcend it.

[betoobig]

ha ha ha ha haha ha ha ha ha...snif...ahhyyy ha ha ha ha
Thanks so much Zoolife, you made my day, i´m cracking my self up. SO funny... love it.
SO, BAck to the NOW.... this is so good!!!
Much Love

[ZooLife]

(Even) In the still pitch black silent night you are here.
Though I can not see you, I see you.
Though I can not touch you, I touch you.
Though I can not hear you, I can hear you.
You are here.

http://s3.amazonaws.com/photos.gazette/outtherecolorado/2015/09/6b43f08019c6a050098635bec12b7137-1320x743.jpg

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/E100E564-00F4-4CF3-8021-8AAAE2F5101C_zpslztq0ig1.jpg

[Guish]

If you want to be free,
Get to know your real self.
It has no form,
No appearance, no root,
No basis, no abode,
But is lively and buoyant.
It responds with versatil facility,
But its function
Cannot be located;
When you look for it you become
Further from it.
When you seek it
You turn away from it all the more.

- Rinzai ( d.867)

[Innocent Warrior]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CGZ7AQSUQAAEX0I.jpg

[Meggings]

God said:

You are based on Earth, and, yet, your true foundation is in Heaven.
The fact is there is nothing else but Heaven! Earth, as dear as it is, is flimflam.
It is a B movie. Sometimes it is the Best Movie of the Year.

- "Imagine That" Heavenletter #4104

http://www.heavenletters.org/imagine-that.html

[ZooLife]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CGZ7AQSUQAAEX0I.jpg


This explains why.... in my self-discovery I look like an ass. Some times it's a good ass, sometimes a badass, and sometimes they mean the same thing. :P

Now I am being 'cheeky'. ;)

http://iruntheinternet.com/lulzdump/images/random-cheeky-cat-picture-tongue-1351475843S.jpg

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/C4A20BF9-19F6-4DB5-BFD7-9F98B62F8B2E_zpsbzgnskzm.jpg

[Guish]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/C4A20BF9-19F6-4DB5-BFD7-9F98B62F8B2E_zpsbzgnskzm.jpg

Very true. It either brings one in darkness or forces one to heal the wound and discover one's power, ability and ultimately not take any pain personally. It's all a big game and the best player gives the best without clinging to the game. How Ironic?

[Skyhaven]

People often push away the dark side of things, bottling it up in the unconscious, until the cork pops. Last night I watched a talk on the deeper workings of good and evil, how the shadowside is often suppressed within our spirit and within society and how this so often spirals out of control:

MoCFDfr_uvk

[greybeard]

Does Enlightenment Happen Gradually, or with a Bang?

Sadhguru looks at how nothing in the universe happens "bang, bang, bang!" Everything is a process. Can you identify the process or not is the question. The possibility is wide open for everyone, but one must sustain the process.

Mango metaphor

This is true and entertaining

Chris


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNuBBNB-gXw

[ZooLife]

Perhaps enlightenment does happen with a bang (flash) and then disperses only to begin again after maximum dispersal.

No one can forget a most brilliant flash in the darkest of moments.

http://i4.minus.com/j0qYMXoi5R1aj.jpg

[ZooLife]

This is water

Quite the deluge don't you think?

http://www.peterlikexposed.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Tree-of-the-Universe.jpg

http://desktophive.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/Sea-Stars-Galaxy-Universe-1024x576.jpg

http://www.astrosurf.com/pruneda/blog/uploaded_images/b33_04-703100.JPG

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/3d/b7/05/3db705370fe1493ac1c20891bbd448bf.jpg

http://i.ytimg.com/vi/T1r8unvH35E/maxresdefault.jpg

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f-fVsIAE55c/TNvs8lzQ1RI/AAAAAAAABmk/2BtCOunhwvU/s1600/Hubble-Wallpaper-space-647500_1600_1200.jpg


++++++++++++++++++++++++++


http://dogsrfunny.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/dis_is_deep__swimming_pool_water_funny_dog_picture.jpg

[Guish]

October 24th, 2015

The mind that is not always
Caught up in details
Is your only treasure.
Stop chasing details and become
Still to feel it.
The mind that sees details clearly,
But is not caught up by them
Is like a vast borderless mirror.
- Ji Aoi Isshi

[joeecho]

Much of the time one doesn't realize what they have gotten themselves into.....while they are in it.

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/1b/a6/90/1ba690f8c8e0ba3114751d8ccb347239.jpg

https://www.superfunnyimages.com/images/facee668f3_Animal-Memes-----What-have-I-gotten-myself-into-.jpg

http://ct.iscute.com/ol/ic/sw/i60/2/7/9/ic_c626319dc6b5a02cdaff7b92c3b1e4f7.jpg

[joeecho]

Taking up home in a mind is like taking up home in a world/ universe.

It makes a world of difference. ;)

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/0d/12/90/0d12902948cdf1b5535bb454dee52461.jpg

[greybeard]

Bashar :: Essassani Story Highlights

About events that exist within Bashar's reality and how they relate to Earth's reality. How the archetypes of stories are anchored in the framework of existance. Q&A includes: How can we use story-structure to teach children? How can I change the belief that following my excitement will be nothing but a "goose-chase?", Do we really need to eat food? How can I overcome my unwanted childhood memories? How do the bible's stories relate to our human story as seen by extra-terrestrials? What is the secret function of goose-bumps? How do ETs and films reflect the mass agreement of society? Includes a HOLOTOPE EXPERIENCE and a Father's Day appreciation for Bashar. Music by Bunny Brunel. See www. Bashar.org for more info.

Thanks to Heart2hearth for this


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdpIyYMvXPk&feature=em-share_video_user

[Wind]

"He is being called indeed, to die to his ego, to take the desires and passions, the greeds and hates out of his life, to learn the art of living in utter independence of externals and in utter dependence on the Overself. And this is that same call which Jesus uttered when he said: ”He that loseth his life shall find it.” Thus the sorrows of life on earth are but a transient means to an eternal end, a process through which we have to learn how to expand awareness from the person to the Overself."

~ Paul Brunton

http://i.imgur.com/JCZLWIr.jpg

[Zampano]

No I, no problem!
Short and good!

[ZooLife]

No I, no problem!
Short and good!

There is also no peace and love as a conscious experience.

https://thoughtuncommon.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/sun_and_moon_by_daydreamer_art.jpg

http://www.world-mysteries.com/d-neiman-3.jpg

[Meggings]

I thank Greybeard et al. who brought to my attention "Conversations With God" recently. I downloaded Book One, which Neale Donald Walsch wrote, and find this gem I'd like to share. Through my past couple of days I've been reminding myself of this as I detect my spirits (my vibrational level) a bit lowered. Here is the key sentence for me, and below this is the material from which I took it:

Let’s be clear that “being at the spiritual game” means dedicating your whole mind, your whole body, your whole soul to the process of creating Self in the image and likeness of God.

CONVERSATIONS WITH GOD, Book 1
An Uncommon Dialogue (from Chapter 7)


Neale: I’ve been at the spiritual game for over 20 years now, and look where it’s gotten me. One paycheck away from the poorhouse! And now I’ve just lost my job, and it looks like the cash flow has stopped again. I’m getting really tired of the struggle. I’m 49 years old, and I’d like to have some security in life so that I could devote more time to “God stuff,” to soul “evoluting,” etc. That’s where my heart is, but it’s not where my life allows me to go…

Well, you’ve said a mouthful there, and I suspect you’re speaking for a whole lot of people when you share that experience. I’m going to respond to your truth one sentence at a time, so that we can easily track, and dissect, the answer.

You have not been “at this spiritual game” for 20 years, you have been barely skirting the edges of it. ...I’ll concede that for two decades you’ve been looking at it; flirting with it; experimenting now and then… but I haven’t felt your true—your truest—commitment to the game until just recently.

Let’s be clear that “being at the spiritual game” means dedicating your whole mind, your whole body, your whole soul to the process of creating Self in the image and likeness of God.

This is the process of Self realization about which Eastern mystics have written. It is the process of salvation to which much Western theology has devoted itself. This is a day-to-day, hour-to-hour, moment-to-moment act of supreme consciousness. It is a choosing and a re-choosing every instant. It is ongoing creation. Conscious creation. Creation with a purpose. It is using the tools of creation we have discussed, and using them with awareness and sublime intention. That is “playing this spiritual game.” Now, how long have you been at this?


Neale Donald Walsch: I haven’t even begun.

Don’t go from one extreme to the other, and don’t be so hard on yourself. You have been dedicated to this process—and you’re actually engaged in it more than you’ll give yourself credit for. But you haven’t been doing so for 20 years—or anything close to that. Yet the truth is, how long you have been engaged in it is not important. Are you engaged in it now? That’s all that matters.

[Meggings]

It may be of interest - The Course in Miracles began in October 1965, and this week marks the 50th anniversary of it.

This webpage has a few photos of its beginning: http://acim.org/semicentennial/oct.html?utm_source=*CC_all+devices_Semicentennial_Helen%27s+Notebooks_Oct+2015_v1&utm_campaign=Helen%27s+Notebooks&utm_medium=email

[Wind]

ॐ
I am opening the door to true understanding
and direct experience for you.
You have to come out of all delusion
and the biggest one is, 'I am the body and the person.
I am the 'thinker' of thoughts and the 'doer' of actions.
I am the giver and receiver.'
Such delusions must vanish altogether.
But we cannot somehow just snap the finger
and come out of delusion
- even if you say it is all you really, really want.
But you have said Yes to Truth even though, at
present, it is not firmly established inside your heart.
This Yes is opening doors
in the visible and invisible realms.
Something is being refined by Grace
in order that Truth gets established in the heart.
There is a space there, an unshared space.
Two kings cannot sit on one throne.
You don't have to be a perfect sage
but you have to want the Truth perfectly.
Something perfect and infinite is here,
and I cannot say what it is, for it is wordless.
But work is going on in every heart
to prepare for its coming.
Everyone has to be touched
by the spirit of John the Baptist.
Who is this John?
He is the one who goes ahead to prepare each heart
for the coming of the Holy One.

~ Mooji

[ZooLife]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOdwOXAljzA

http://www.ecogentleman.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/%E2%99%82-Graphic-quotes-design-by-Eco-Gentleman-Silence-is-pure-and-holy-It-draws-people-together-because-only-those-who-are-comfortable-with-each-other-can-sit-without-speaking-by-Nicholas-Sparks.jpg

http://www.emallart.com/sm-cnt/uploads/edd/2013/06/silent_love.jpg

[Guish]

https://scontent-kul1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xft1/v/t1.0-9/12065968_766625490113161_9060843299081511183_n.jpg?oh=07f7795cddec8846c83f1f30bc71ae62&oe=56BDA78E

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/61852F7E-037F-4FFB-A7D9-3C3E1BFEFF76_zpsudobmaas.jpg

[Meggings]

I have always liked Neville Goddard (amongst many other lights). Here's something that came my way today:

HOW TO CONSENT TO A STATE

Ephesians tells us that, `All things, when admitted, are made manifest by light." The word "light" recorded here means awareness, consciousness.

The state the individual admits into his consciousness is the cause of one man being rich and another poor. The poor man admits to being in the state of poverty by saying, "I am poor," just as the rich man admits wealth by saying, "I am rich."

Anything you, an individual, claim yourself self to be (be it good, bad or indifferent, right or wrong) must be made manifest in your world, for by claiming the state, you have consented to its life.




Chapter 1:Your Infinite Worth
The Power of Unlimited Imagination:
A Collection of Neville's San Francisco Lectures

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/2B436E67-3800-4E30-BD4C-4195165E6D91_zpsgpnfjnhn.jpg

[ZooLife]

Lost in wonderment has it's perks.

http://www.dayspringchristianchurch.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Lost-in-Wonder.jpg

http://www.dsgnoverdose.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/lost-in-nature-1.jpg

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-doOFGXtEh48/VfUq1BljVAI/AAAAAAAAfSY/ELaNqfMFEj8/s1600/2%2529%2B-%2B11%2BQuotes%2BAbout%2BTravelling%2BThat%2527ll%2BMake%2BYou%2BWant%2Bto%2BGet%2BLost%2Bin%2BThe%2 BGreat%2BUnknown.png

[ZooLife]

I read a post about mind control on another thread regarding a subject idea that I don't consider mind control and then I thought...

At its purest definition, mind control is everywhere and.....for me....it isn't so much mind control as much as 'what lever(s) one controls in the mind'.

It's like there are all these levers in our mind and one can be observant of others trying to manipulate our levers or we can 'mind' control what levers we choose to pull/ push... like happiness or contentment. There are certainly plenty of people who want to manipulate our fear lever for example. Let's tell them to keep their grubby hands off it! :)

http://www.elated.com/res/Image/articles/authoring/html/html5-audio/levers.jpg

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/4a/ef/b1/4aefb16e73a4c3c47b7b38b7d1e706fa.jpg

https://authordenisekennedy.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/contentment1.jpg

[Skyhaven]

I just came out of that mind control topic too, and I was like: http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/809F4122-9DB0-4AAC-82FF-77BF77EDC166_zpsm1yxlkaq.gif

[betoobig]

The simple way is allways the way. To be free of mind control just stay out of the mind, stay in the heart, in the still point. No matter you have no time to meditate, spread the stillnes trough out the daily routine by staying in the heart. I never get tired of this quote "Remember, nothing is under control"
Love

[Wind]

True love, peace, joy, wisdom and lasting contentment do not require any effort in themselves.

Why?

Because they are the natural fragrances inside your very nature,
and what is natural is also effortless
and need only be discovered.
Therefore consider:
Beyond a certain necessary stage,
could not your very efforts become an obstacle
to recognising the wholeness
already present inside your heart
— a wholeness that can only be recognised,
not developed?
Seek the Lord's or Satguru's grace.

~ Mooji

[Skyhaven]

The simple way is allways the way. To be free of mind control just stay out of the mind, stay in the heart, in the still point. No matter you have no time to meditate, spread the stillnes trough out the daily routine by staying in the heart. I never get tired of this quote "Remember, nothing is under control"
Love

Very true, the irony of that topic is that in the true case of ascencion there is no 'mind' to control... There's just emptiness of self, filled with the pure uncontrollable essence from the higher planes.

[ZooLife]

The simple way is allways the way. To be free of mind control just stay out of the mind, stay in the heart, in the still point. No matter you have no time to meditate, spread the stillnes trough out the daily routine by staying in the heart. I never get tired of this quote "Remember, nothing is under control"
Love

Very true, the irony of that topic is that in the true case of ascencion there is no 'mind' to control... There's just emptiness of self, filled with the pure uncontrollable essence from the higher planes.

Thanks for these posts.

The mind comes up with what the mind comes up with.

Conceptually there are levers but ultimately there are no levers.

<3

[Skyhaven]

Levers are to hold on to, one has to let go of the levers created in the mind... and trust/be one with the true self... Someone once said "give everything up, and everything will be given to you"...

These levers themselves have been put there by mind control of society. Their task is to build up the ego, and abandonment of true self, because only a self that identifies with their ego-mind can be controlled.

[Skyhaven]

This bit of text I read yesterday about western colonizers describing native Americans and aborigines and their absence of self, is very striking in this regard:

Some European colonists were actually aware of this difference themselves, and realised that they would only be able to truly ‘civilise’ the natives by developing their sense of ‘self-ness’. Senator Henry Dawes – who attempted to turn Amerindians into small scale landowners – went to heart of the matter when he wrote of the Cherokees in 1887, ‘They have got as far as they can go [i.e. they are not going to progress any further], because they hold their land in common There is no selfishness, which is at the bottom of civilisation’ (in Wright, 1995). The English missionaries in Australia tried various measures to develop the aborigines’ sense of individuality. As Bain Atwood (1989) writes, ‘the missionaries sought to make each [aborigine] an integrated centre of consciousness, distinct from the natural world and from other aborigines.’ To this end, they made them live in separate houses and tried to stop going into each other’s. They baptised them so that they would think of themselves in terms of a permanent name, instead of the fluid aboriginal names which could change and include the names of other tribe members. This was not successful, however. The aborigines never developed a sense of personal ownership over their houses or the possessions inside them. They wandered in and out of each other’s houses, and continually swapped possessions.

[greybeard]

Yes Skyhaven
The Red Indians had a very spiritual, balanced life.
A time for everything in good proportion.
The Westerners just did not understand this or were in avoidance of the simple practicality that the Red Indians enjoyed.
They wanted for nothing in the main---of course there were exceptions and that did depend on where the tribe lived and the weather associated with that location.
They had gratitude and an understanding of the value of al life and Mother Earth.

I dont know much about the Aborigines much the same applied

Im enjoying all the various contributions.

Love Chris

[ZooLife]

Yes Skyhaven
The Red Indians had a very spiritual, balanced life.
A time for everything in good proportion.
The Westerners just did not understand this or were in avoidance of the simple practicality that the Red Indians enjoyed.
They wanted for nothing in the main---of course there were exceptions and that did depend on where the tribe lived and the weather associated with that location.
They had gratitude and an understanding of the value of al life and Mother Earth.

I dont know much about the Aborigines much the same applied

Im enjoying all the various contributions.

Love Chris

I agree, some really good stuff!

My worldly profession requires a heavy dose of the mental so even when I am 'off' work, my mind still wants to run like a rocket ship.

You, my friends, help me to be 'lost in the right direction' (cool phrase).

Wind's and Chris's threads are special places for me. That and the Kitteh (http://projectavalon.net/forum4/showthread.php?75091-Where-Attention-goes-focus-goes---&p=1014340&viewfull=1#post1014340) (and other cute animals) thread and few other whimsical threads are my favorites. There are a number of other threads that I find fascinating but they do not feed my spirit like this one and Chris's thread.

**Hugs**

<3

Sara

[greybeard]

Bashar - your vibration radiates

courtesy of Heart2hearth




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5i-VCDRyMw&feature=em-share_video_in_list_user&list=PLlrioXR8FJnoY7mqm27LcHQZQ638vypST

[betoobig]

The simple way is allways the way. To be free of mind control just stay out of the mind, stay in the heart, in the still point. No matter you have no time to meditate, spread the stillnes trough out the daily routine by staying in the heart. I never get tired of this quote "Remember, nothing is under control"
Love

Very true, the irony of that topic is that in the true case of ascencion there is no 'mind' to control... There's just emptiness of self, filled with the pure uncontrollable essence from the higher planes.
All very true, but enlightment is harder to hold than th so called "middle way", which i believe been in the heart is; right in the middle, simple.
@Zoolife , agree, same here. Thanks so much to all.
Love
Juan

[Meme]

I agree with that. And I think that when someone thinks that he has perfected his defense response is when their the most obnoxious. Do you agree?

[greybeard]

I agree with that. And I think that when someone thinks that he has perfected his defense response is when their the most obnoxious. Do you agree?

Welcome to the thread Meme.
I dont mind, people are as they are.
Just gives others a chance to tell the Truth--smiling
It is as it is.

Best wishes
Chris

[Guish]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/12188889_843499779102757_5723562329853388058_n.jpg?oh=94589c0a97087e1724540827e06810c1&oe=56C557D2&__gda__=1456378715_a612d5f52ddffc1f96c963c00beb1a44

[ZooLife]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/12188889_843499779102757_5723562329853388058_n.jpg?oh=94589c0a97087e1724540827e06810c1&oe=56C557D2&__gda__=1456378715_a612d5f52ddffc1f96c963c00beb1a44

Maybe it's because Halloween is coming up but did anyone else notice the skull in the picture Guish posted?

Nothing ominous in mentioning this, just found it a curiosity.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ohqlppNJIHo/UBGGVo9rTcI/AAAAAAAAAGA/ANMtDcu5dDw/s1600/comp.jpg

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/17/16/dc/1716dc0d228d1ce226015dbafbb934e9.jpg

[Guish]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/12188889_843499779102757_5723562329853388058_n.jpg?oh=94589c0a97087e1724540827e06810c1&oe=56C557D2&__gda__=1456378715_a612d5f52ddffc1f96c963c00beb1a44

Maybe it's because Halloween is coming up but did anyone else notice the skull in the picture Guish posted?

Nothing ominous in mentioning this, just found it a curiosity.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ohqlppNJIHo/UBGGVo9rTcI/AAAAAAAAAGA/ANMtDcu5dDw/s1600/comp.jpg

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/17/16/dc/1716dc0d228d1ce226015dbafbb934e9.jpg

Great you saw it. I posted it because of perception. I see a beautiful moon, I see the evil skul. The wise would see both and not get distracted. The middle way my Friend.

[Eichelon01]

Thanks for the intriguing topic you brought up Chris, I also believe that in order to find ones self the psychiatric ego must be transcended. So that the Sense of Self Christ appears.

Cheers,
Eichelon01.

[ZooLife]

http://41.media.tumblr.com/b5a4b38b2a402f879ef7bd90d92aa5d8/tumblr_ndjmhykK5w1sz8z7wo1_400.jpg

[Valley]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/12188889_843499779102757_5723562329853388058_n.jpg?oh=94589c0a97087e1724540827e06810c1&oe=56C557D2&__gda__=1456378715_a612d5f52ddffc1f96c963c00beb1a44

Maybe it's because Halloween is coming up but did anyone else notice the skull in the picture Guish posted?

Nothing ominous in mentioning this, just found it a curiosity.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ohqlppNJIHo/UBGGVo9rTcI/AAAAAAAAAGA/ANMtDcu5dDw/s1600/comp.jpg

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/17/16/dc/1716dc0d228d1ce226015dbafbb934e9.jpg

Great you saw it. I posted it because of perception. I see a beautiful moon, I see the evil skul. The wise would see both and not get distracted...
...And the 'adept' might get inspired by what they see here... leaving fear 'to the rear'.

[greybeard]

Welcome to the thread Eichelon01. & Valley
Keep posting please.
Love
Chris

[Clear Light]

QAmogV2juH4

[greybeard]

QAmogV2juH4

I really don't understand how I ended up in that video--laughing.
It does not do to be too serious.
AND We make plans and God laughs.
Humour rules OK!!!

There are many reasons I like the no path of enlightenment.
Here are the main ones --
Its totally autonomous --I dont need anyone else to bring this about--I already am it.
Help is available via advice or Satsang to assist me to remove obstacles.
The help comes from the state called enlightenment.
The teacher and the taught are the same
There is no hierarchy
All are equal in every way.
I have choice to be part of group--by that I mean going to see friends at Satsang, retreat, or online. (just like here)
There are no rules, regulations, oaths to take, you are not judged.

Its my choice to invest money or not --the information is free but yes books and Satsang cost to arrange and put on.

Love Chris

[ZooLife]

Everything and every-thing is the phantom wall between us all. And as far as 'time' is concerned, it will always and has always been that way.

If you teach something, you're teaching yourself.
If you learned something, you've learned it from yourself.

The phantom wall is far beyond but oh so near, dear.

http://www.waivingentropy.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Orion-Nebula-Messier-42.jpg

[Wind]

When it is said that we lose our individuality on entering Nirvana, words are being used loosely and faultily. So long as a man, whether he be Buddha or Hitler, has to walk, eat, and work, he must use his individuality. What is lost by the sage is his attachment to individuality with its desires, hates, angers, and passions.

~ Paul Brunton

http://oi68.tinypic.com/119z0ad.jpg

[ZooLife]

Great you saw it. I posted it because of perception. I see a beautiful moon, I see the evil skul. The wise would see both and not get distracted. The middle way my Friend.

May the wise not get caught up in it's own wisdom.

Distraction is a function of being.

Being 'here' is itself a distraction but it's one hell of a beautiful distraction.

http://www.stevesaccone.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Distraction.jpg

[Valley]

Thanks Mr Beard... It's a fine atmosphere 'round here.
http://projectavalon.net/forum4/attachment.php?attachmentid=31676&cid=1&stc=1
Blessings All Around...
Welcome to the thread Eichelon01. & Valley
Keep posting please.
Love
Chris

[betoobig]

Gaia´s enlightenment...
i posted this on the "Good news" thread, but i bet you all like to "confirm" this:
God Particles from the Galactic Core
http://www.wakingtimes.com/2015/10/20/god-particles-from-the-galactic-core/
Much love

[Skyhaven]

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/fd/52/02/fd5202fbe18d1012d71d0450af419a99.jpg

[Wind]

ॐ
Sometimes you look into the face of a human being and only being is seen.
No history is left there.
You are looking into the face of God.
The breath of God burns all sorrow and suffering,
all dreams, desires and time,
revealing God's unmasked face.
I love that face.
Now you are looking into the face of God himself.
He is looking into his own face.
If duality has any purpose, it is that God may look at God
and enjoy his perfect reflection.

~ Mooji

[Skyhaven]

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/03/f4/5f/03f45f5e40e5a463c6a2f31bf66f5340.jpg

[betoobig]

Have an awesome Autum sunday
AWAsI3U2EaE
Love

[Grizz Griswold]

Here is an excerpt from, The Escape To Everywhere, a great little book by Paul Hedderman

Consciousness is going through the doors of the senses and meeting itself here. The mental process then claims it: I am the one seeing, doing, etc. It’s my body. If your attention left the mental process, if you weren’t so addicted to the idea of being a self, if your attention could entertain, “Possibly I’m not this that I’m so absorbed in and as,” you would see there is no need to get out of self because there was never a self to be in. Sensations of the body are hijacked by the mental process which spins out a story of feelings about you. About what was you and what is going to be you. Then the thoughts reinforce that. Obsessing over self all day. We are saddled with the proscribed way of looking called self-centeredness. Everything is perceived as to how it pertains to me. The thing to do is to turn the light on it to see that all there is, is subject; there is no object called me as a subject. There’s just subjectivity. That’s the truth. Then enlightenment and all these goals become non-goals, because you realize there is nothing to seek. You already know what the game is like when you’re identified as the body. Now you might see how it goes when you’re not. The narration about the journey is the heaviness. You’ll see the solution by the problem’s absence. When that narration is dismissed you realize, “That’s what I was suffering from!”

With Love
bear

[ZooLife]

Lub Dub
Lub Dub
Lub Dub

Start Stop
Start Stop
Start Stop


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5m4ypjBnqE

They are one.
In one is a start stop, start stop, start stop......
Start stop, start stop, start stop.... is one, is one, is one....


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UeKpk2F8YBU

That's being
That's water

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/4f/4c/d7/4f4cd76aeec51e2639a0f8aaa05ec1f8.gif

[Guish]

Perceive freshly as you enter
The world of continual emergence.
That rock-bottomed essence of your mind,
Is always still, but ever-emerging;
Always there, as if waiting to be noticed.

- Ji Aoi Isshi

[Skyhaven]

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/dc/6d/9e/dc6d9e2f599dd3a4713ab119932dd25b.jpg

[Guish]

THe code of Dokkodo:

Do not seek pleasure for its own sake.

Do not, under any circumstances, depend on a partial feeling.

Think lightly of yourself and deeply of the world.

Be detached from desire your whole life.

Do not regret what you have done.

Never be jealous.

Never let yourself be saddened by a separation.

Resentment and complaint are appropriate neither for oneself nor others.

Do not let yourself be guided by the feeling of lust or love.

In all things, have no preferences.

Be indifferent to where you live.

Do not pursue the taste of good food.

Do not hold on to possessions you no longer need.

Do not act following customary beliefs.

Do not collect weapons or practice with weapons beyond what is useful.

Do not fear death.

http://i2.wp.com/www.thedailyzen.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/riviere-tama-dans-la-province-de-musashi.jpg?resize=800%2C543

[greybeard]

I really appreciate your posts Guish
You have a wide variety of "teachers".
They have their own way of sharing the same Truth.

I also appreciate the pictures posted by your self and others

Thanks
Chris

[Guish]

Thanks Chris.
The most beautiful thing is always the simplest thing.

[Wind]

"Not to lose this inner peace amid difficulties which may crush others to the ground in despair, not to lose faith in this deeper source of fortitude and support--if this should be called for at a certain time in a quester's life, he will only grow inwardly by taking the challenge, even if he fails outwardly by the seeming result."

~ Paul Brunton

https://scontent-ams3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpt1/v/l/t1.0-9/12046843_706347152835186_3337094178383172400_n.jpg?oh=8ad378e81a83bad06c9172ac95adefdf&oe=56C4C28E

[Wind]

Sometimes the presence of the Lord is too much.
You try to go to bed but the bed rejects you.
Sleep rejects you.
Sleep says, 'Go. I don't want you now.
Go and stay with Him.
Go and be with your Lord.
Keep the Lord's company. This night you will not sleep.'
Sometimes we are on fire like this
and no water can quench this fire.
You find yourself leaving your house.
You step out under the moonlight,
under the stars to try and cool off
and it is not happening.
It even gets more intense.
You are full of the brightness of the spirit.
This body is made for the holy spirit.
You have to drink God's 'Rum Punch'.
When you are drunk in the holy spirit you will forget
everything except him. This is freedom itself.
The house of sorrow is burning
and only the clear space of God is left.
Only that cannot be burnt.

~ Mooji, from the book 'White Fire'

[Skyhaven]

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/4b/47/28/4b4728fcac378e58b3478cad1e278572.jpg

[Guish]

Lao-tze said to cultivate
Tranquility and detachment.
To be natural means
Not to force things.
When you act natural,
You get what you need,
But to know what is natural,
You have to cultivate tranquility.

- Master Hsieh

[Wind]

Can you imagine meeting with God and knowing there
is nothing you could say that would make him upset
with you? And when you know you cannot do anything
to change his love for you, then many suppressed
feelings leave you. Nothing to be offended, nothing
to judge, nothing to forgive nor to heal. Nothing
has ever been remembered of anything wrong you
think you ever did. I tell you that you
don't have to imagine this, because it is true.
People worry and say,
'Man, you really don't know what kind of thoughts I
have.' They are only terrible because you think they
are yours and that there is a 'you' who thinks them.

~ Mooji

[Skyhaven]

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/0d/0c/34/0d0c34b18b6bbe2c43616d57ebc3ed84.jpg

[Zampano]

So...and here we have Liberation Unleashed!


…because self is the biggest trick that mind ever played…
Liberation Unleashed is…

here to help you see through the illusion of a separate self;
a global internet-based community. Everyone is welcome to join;
an ever-growing movement of volunteer guides, here to Point you to no self.

All we do here is point. If you are a long-time seeker, or just curious about this, we invite you to investigate and explore what no self really is. This service is available to everyone, for free. Join the forum and request a guide if and when you are ready to see this for yourself. We use the Direct Pointing method, which consists of a dialogue between a guide and a seeker.

This is a process of looking at what IS; no prior knowledge or years of seeking are required. The guide poses very specific questions in order to focus the attention on the experience of the present moment. This triggers what we refer to as ‘crossing the Gateless Gate’: an instant in which the illusion of a separate self is seen through. A shift in perception happens.

We guide because we are a community that openly and freely shares what we have been given by others that did the same for us. We guide because we believe that questioning assumptions leads to freedom. You only need to bring your honesty and curiosity. We ask nothing from you except your willingness to Look.

I think that says it all. I joined the forum and asked for a guide and for more then a week, I am interacting with him.
The method they use is called "direct pointing"-probably some of you guys and girls are familiar with that through Ramana Maharshi and Nisargadatta Maharaj.
To me, it is very effective-dissolving the "I" illusion.
Its for free and I am very grateful for it...have a try!

Available in German, Spanish, English, Portoguese, Finnish, French, Danish, Italian, Dutch and Russian.

Since the guides are helping you in their spare time, I highly recommend to be really serious about that topic!

[Guish]

When most people hear
That the Buddhas transmit the
Teaching of the One Mind,
They suppose that there
Is something to be attained
Or realized apart from mind,
And they use mind to seek the teaching,
Not realizing that mind and
The object of their search are one.
Mind can’t be used to seek mind;
If it is, even after millions of eons
Have gone by, the search will still not be over.

- Huang-Po

[Wind]

In order to really grow inside,
you must first be challenged from all directions.
Things cannot just go your way.
You cannot command life or expect
it to fulfil your projections.
If things are always easy,
you go to sleep inside your being.
As you become more sensitive,
more alert, more intuitive, open and silent,
fear, resistance and lethargy subside
and are replaced with a deep calm
and a faith in the unseen one.
Though no outer company may be seen alongside you,
the one who walks with God is never alone.
The hosts of the heavens walk with them.
Welcome on the road of true life.

~ Mooji

[Innocent Warrior]

Man as he now is has ceased to be the All.
But when he ceases to be a separate individual, he raises himself again and permeates the Universe.
-Plotinus

http://theunboundedspirit.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/spiritual-eye-universe.jpg

[joeecho]

This is a universe pack full of things, where even nothing is something and why nothing is missing.

In a universe where everything is covered, there is a cover up.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jXeF1rMkpQw


He told me I wasn't really looking for him. I was looking for an answer. It's the question, Neo. It's the question that drives us. -The Matrix (1999)

[Innocent Warrior]

Lub Dub
Lub Dub
Lub Dub

Start Stop
Start Stop
Start Stop


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5m4ypjBnqE

They are one.
In one is a start stop, start stop, start stop......
Start stop, start stop, start stop.... is one, is one, is one....


The Big Bounce Model Creates the Beating Heart of the Cosmos

Physicist Stephen Alexander suggests that we have heard the heartbeat of the universe, and it can be found in the Big Bounce model of the universe’s beginnings. The Big Bang posits that a very dense, highly temperatured cluster of matter exploded, which has resulted in the universe we see today. The Big Bounce model differs from that of the Big Bang in that there was a previous universe which collapsed, and in turn “bounced out” into the universe that we now inhabit. If this holds true, the contraction and expansion of the universe can be seen as the beating of the cosmos’ heart. But because gravity is strongest when things reach the point of singularity, Alexander believes that the force that drives the universe back out into expansion are neutrinos. According to the Big Bounce model, the universe does not actually ever reach that final singularity, but is “pushed back out” by the repulsive force found in neutrinos that reach a superfluid state when under that kind of compression, which that kind of gravity enforces.
Source. (http://nvate.com/7163/universe-alive/)

IK2M4tSd-ic

qgg4YUnLL3Y

Not the sound of Earth's heartbeat, but a cool gif of the seasonal changes, "a breathing Earth";

http://h.fastcompany.net/multisite_files/codesign/imagecache/inline-large/inline/2013/08/1673186-inline-breathingearth-sm.gif

jz5y-rKWkoE

[Guish]

https://scontent-kul1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/12193604_847848765334525_4956404718837587657_n.jpg?oh=c21dcf857d20a6d29e6d0d01df074ea1&oe=56BAF6FD

[ZooLife]

https://breakupandshine.files.wordpress.com/2013/05/tunnel-illusion-32.jpg

http://www.forwards.in/data/images/0912/1347766754_5.jpg

http://travelchannel.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/travel/fullset/2015/03/27/parque-francisco-alvarado-topiaries-zancera-costa-rica.jpg.rend.tccom.966.544.jpeg

http://astoundable.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/amazing-unseen-tunnels-1.jpg

http://www.simplyamazingpictures.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/under-water-tunnels.jpg

One aspect of symbolism would be to consider the tunnel as enlightenment and the light 'at the end' as....well....the LIGHT!

[Meggings]

Not many days ago, Ron Mauer Sr. posted on another thread about Matrix Energetics (here: http://projectavalon.net/forum4/showthread.php?84653-Put-Another-Log-On-The-Fire&p=1015941&viewfull=1#post1015941

That put me in mind of having met Richard Bartlett in the days prior to ME. Then I meandered onto how his daughter sometimes pops up on my facebook page. Serendipitously, she appeared this morning with a thoughtful discussion. I'd like to share it here. In a way, "to care" in her post is synonymous with "to be kind", or "to love", or "to respect". It is as though there are only ever two things in our duality - love and not-love. I hope the words of Justice Bartlett are useful here.

"As long as we are the fragmented, disappointed wounded children running around pretending to be grown ups in our fancy business suits and our never-ending barrage of commitments, both financial and personal, we will never move completely beyond the collusion and delusion of weakness and victimhood.

"I say delusion because it is just that. We are powerful to the capacity of our wildest imaginings and beyond. Our imagination has been usurped and replaced with a series of negative fantasies that keep us bound and enslaved to the ever-raising debt ceiling in all aspects of our lives.

"The entire “not enough” meme is a perpetration of the most basic lack, the lack of nurturing that is a plague upon our nation and society. In order for us to break this cycle, we must reclaim our nature as the powerful, luminescent beings that we are. In order to do this we must begin to recognize this truth about ourselves, and in doing so, hold the truth to be self evident that all men and women are at the core of their being power and purity with a tremendous capacity for creativity and play."

Justice Bartlett prefaces this with a discussion of "TO GLOW UP".

"A glow up is a person who has integrated the vibrance, innocence and intelligence that is the inherent birthright that we exhibit so freely as children and infused these qualities with a solid foundation of integrity and maturity while saying in touch with their souls joy and playfulness.
This integration can be reached in two specific ways. It can remain intact through the vigilante nurturing of our primary care givers, those being our parents and teachers, friends and communities or it can be reestablished through our own care and attentiveness as adults."

I share this because she represents the wonderful thinking of the younger generation, the ways of being that will heal and mend the world.

[suzzycowgirl]

I recently published a kindle book on this subject; http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0163DVKS8?*Version*=1&*entries*=0

[greybeard]

I recently published a kindle book on this subject; http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0163DVKS8?*Version*=1&*entries*=0

Congratulation I hope it sells well for you.

Love Chris

[betoobig]

"The path to spiritual enlightenment leads through the mind field of mental illness. Mental illness has to be dealt with and overcome before one can experience the joy and power of enlightenment."
Very interesting. Wellcome to Avalon...( a bit late, sorry). You will love the story of a schaman who went to visit a mental hospital. He stated that mental hillness is a sing that the person will be a healler and how through treatment those people where even worst. It is called "What a schaman sees in a mental hospital", here is the link, enjoy.http://www.bibliotecapleyades.net/cienciareal/esp_chaman_24.htm
"The Shamanic View of Mental Illness

In the shamanic view, mental illness signals "the birth of a healer," explains Malidoma Patrice Somé.

Thus, mental disorders are spiritual emergencies, spiritual crises, and need to be regarded as such to aid the healer in being born. What those in the West view as mental illness, the Dagara people regard as "good news from the other world."

The person going through the crisis has been chosen as a medium for a message to the community that needs to be communicated from the spirit realm.
"Mental disorder, behavioral disorder of all kinds, signal the fact that two obviously incompatible energies have merged into the same field," says Dr. Somé."
more in the link above
Love

[suzzycowgirl]

Hi Chris, I guess I didn't write it to be entertaining and sell. Mostly I wrote it to bring enlightenment out of the realm of intellectualism and into the realm of making contact with other people on this high level of consciousness

[suzzycowgirl]

hey betoobig, I've become aware of the truth of your post and will look into the link you provided, thanks This idea fascinates me.

[Skyhaven]

This bit I read recently, it describes quite well how things like depression, but also severe alcoholism and other encounters with death can lead to transformation of consciousness:

However, in states of despair and depression all of – or at least some of – these psychological attachments are broken. This is the very reason why you are in despair: because the constructs you’ve been depending for your well-being have been removed; the ‘scaffolding’ which supported your sense of identity has fallen away. Hopes and beliefs are revealed as illusions; your possessions and status have been taken away, your friends or lovers have rejected you. As a result, you feel naked and lost, as if your identity has been destroyed. But at this very point you are, paradoxically, close to a state of liberation. You are in a state of detachment. Your Self has been released from external constructs. In an instant, therefore, the pain of despair and desolation can switch into a state of freedom and joy.

This is close to the interpretation which Russel Williams and Eckhart Tolle have given of their awakening experiences. According to Russel, his enlightenment experience was a matter of ‘Letting go of everything which I thought was me. The frustration was so much that my old self has to give way.’ While according to Eckhart Tolle, his experience was ‘a death of the sense of self which lived through identifications, identifications with my story, things around me in the world. Something arose at that moment that was a sense of deep and intense stillness and aliveness, beingness.’ [3] In other words, both of these teachers saw their enlightenment experiences in terms of detachment.

This may also be why some severe alcoholics and other addicts have powerful awakening experiences when they reach ‘rock bottom’, when their addiction has destroyed their lives and they can no longer sustain themselves with hopes or illusions. A middle-aged man who I interviewed lost everything due his alcoholism – his wife and children, his job, his house and his savings. He considered killing himself but he’d been brought up in a spiritualist family and believed in life after death, so realised that suicide no solution. He started to attend AA meetings, and after two weeks, he decided to go through the process of ‘handing over’ his problem to a higher power. As he described it to me:

I physically sat down that night and handed it over. And I would class it as a miracle. Sitting in front of the gas fire with the wallpaper peeling off, I felt so content, so at peace, it was quite unbelievable.

After that there was a two-year period when I felt like I was on honeymoon. I didn’t have a trouble in the world. I owned nothing, I was happy to own nothing, and it was like I was watching everybody else, feeling sorry for them because they hadn’t got what I’d got. It’s this understanding that there is something working a higher level than you are, that you don’t have anything to worry about.

In fact, one of the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, Bill Wilson, had a similar experience, when he was lying in hospital after a drinking binge, in a state of mental and physical collapse. According to his biographer, ‘there was nothing ahead but death or madness. This was the finish, the jumping off place.’ But then, in Wilson’s own words:

Suddenly, my room blazed with an indescribably white light. I was seized with an ecstasy beyond description…A wind, not of air, but of spirit [blew through me]. In great, clean strength it blew right through me. Then came the blazing thought, ”You are a free man.”…A great peace stole over me and…I became acutely conscious of a presence which seemed like a veritable sea of living spirit. I lay on the shores of a new world. [4]

In both these cases, their attachments had been destroyed by their addiction. Every external kind of support – relationships, status, hopes and illusions – had dissolved away, so that they were completely desolate and completely free. In the words of Stan Grof, speaking generally of alcoholics and addicts who reach this point, ‘the person is left naked, with nothing but the core of his or her being.’ [5]

But this may also be, at a deeper level, connected to an intensification of life-energy. Attachments to possessions or to other human beings consume our life-energy. Simply maintaining the attachments uses up life-energy – for example, the constant effort to sustain our wealth and status, to defend our beliefs against other people’s, or to keep the approval of others. And in a more subtle way, these attachments exist as ‘psychological forms’ which are present within our minds even when we aren’t aware of them. You can picture them as a whole network of forms which constitute one overall structure of attachment within our psyche. And there has to be a continual of energy to maintain this structure, in the same way that there has to be a continual input of energy to maintain the physical structure of the body.

As a result, when these attachments dissolve there is a sudden release of a large portion of life-energy. And now that this structure of attachment no longer fills our psyche, there is a sudden new clarity and openness inside us, a new sense of wholeness. Our life-energy becomes intensified and stilled, and therefore we have a powerful spiritual experience.

Encountering Death

This is also why encountering death is such a powerful trigger of spiritual experiences. Like states of despair and depression, facing death may occasionally induce a state of detachment, in which the individual spontaneously releases herself from psychological attachments. The German Zen Buddhist Karlfried Von Durckheim experienced this during the First World War, when being surrounded by death made him aware of that there was a part of his being which transcended physical extinction. Later, he collected reports of similar experiences during the Second World War, and found that they were surprisingly common. He found examples amongst soldiers who believed they were about to die on the battlefield, inmates of concentration camps who had lost all hope or survival, and people who were convinced they were about to die in bombing raids. [6]

Such realisations can also occur after a person is diagnosed with a fatal illness, and is told they only have a certain amount of time left to live. Initially he or she experiences feelings of bitterness and despair, which may give way to a sense of serenity and acceptance and a new spiritual perception. When, in 1994, the English playwright Dennis Potter discovered he was dying of prostate cancer he paradoxically became happier and more at peace with the world than he had ever been before, and also developed an intense awareness of the nowness of his experience and the beautiful is-ness of the world. As he said during an interview shortly before he died:

We forget that life can only be defined in the present tense. It is is is. And it is now only…

That nowness becomes so vivid to me that in a perverse sort of way I’m serene. I can celebrate life…The nowness of everything is absolutely wonderful…The fact is that if you see, in the present tense – boy, can you see it; boy, can you celebrate it. [7]

Many people who return from encounters with death – either because a threat passes or they make a miraculous recovery – undergo a permanent spiritual shift. Of course, this is one the most significant features of near-death experiences. Most of those who undergo the experience gain a new spiritual outlook, becoming less materialistic and egotistical and more compassionate, more concerned with helping and serving others than fulfilling their own desires and ambitions. They are no longer afraid of death, they develop either new or intensified religious and spiritual beliefs (though realising the inadequacy of organised religion), and may even develop paranormal abilities. They also report a much greater capacity for joy, and a heightened appreciation of beauty. [8] These effects may not only be due to the content of the NDE – e.g. the sense of profound well-being, an encounter with a being of light or deceased relatives, or the life-review – but also to a simple and direct encounter with death.

Like intense despair and desolation, imminent death dissolves psychological attachments. If you know you are going to die soon, there can be no more hopes or ambitions for you. Your possessions, your successes, the status and the knowledge you’ve accumulated can have no more meaning, now that you are going to be separated from them forever. The normal worries and concerns of daily life fade away for you too, as does your attachment to your career and to the people whose approval you sought.

This is why, initially at least, facing death is a painful experience. You are stripped of the externalities which give you your sense of identity, security and well-being. You are literally reduced to nothing. Many people do not move beyond this pain; for them the process of dying is simply a depressing and devastating experience, not redeemed by any sense of joy or meaning. But for some people this state of enforced detachment brings about a shift to a spiritual state. As the attachments dissolve, there is a sudden intensification and stilling of life-energy, enabling the dying person to look at the world with fresh, child-like vision, to experience serenity and peace inside, and to become aware of their essential oneness with the cosmos.

Long Term Spiritual Development

We can look at long term spiritual development in these terms too. Many spiritual teachers have told us that in order to ‘find God’ or to become one with our true self or with the universe, we have to detach ourselves from possessions, social status and ambitions. Spiritual development means gradually becoming naked, emptying the soul so that the fullness of the spirit can enter. In order to do this, throughout history spiritual seekers have turned away from the everyday world of work and families and chosen to live in the forest, desert or monastery. In all spiritual traditions, adepts are expected to practice ‘voluntary poverty’, to have a bare minimum of possessions, and to live without any unnecessary comforts and luxuries. They are expected to make spiritual development the only goal of their life, and not to have ‘worldly ambitions’ for fame, success or power.

We can see this life of renunciation as an attempt to avoid the ‘energy-drainage’ caused by attachments, so that the seekers could generate a permanently high level of life-energy, and therefore a permanently spiritual state. This underlying purpose of this process of ‘conscious detachment’ was noted by the scholar of mysticism Evelyn Underhill, who described it as a process of ‘stripping or purging away of those superfluous, unreal, and harmful things which dissipate the precious energies of the self.’ [9]. The practice of ‘voluntary poverty’, for example, can be seen as a method of stopping our life-energy being drained away by possessions. As Meister Eckhart wrote, ‘There are men who completely dissipate the powers of the soul in the outward man. These are the people who direct all their aims and intelligence towards transient possessions.’ [10] And many mystics and spiritual teachers would say the same of ambitions, relationships and ‘worldly pleasures.’

This process of detachment is equivalent to the long periods of suffering and turmoil endured by Eckhart Tolle and Russel Williams before their enlightenment experiences. The only difference is that for them this happened involuntarily, whereas mystics undertake this process consciously. The mystics made themselves suffer, while they simply suffered.

So where does this leave us? Does it mean that we have to suffer in order to have spiritual experiences or become enlightened? Do we have to make our lives as barren and miserable as possible, to renounce the world, take vows of silence and sleep on cold stone floors for years?

Of course not – there is a ‘middle way’ between this extreme suffering and a life of attachment. As we live our lives, we should try to make sure that we don’t become too dependent upon externalities like money, status, hopes, beliefs, our self-image and other people. We should try to make sure that we’re always partly rooted inside ourselves, so that we never give ourselves completely away to the world. We should remember that the only true source of well-being lies inside us, and that to attach ourselves to externalities means losing touch with this. Through making a conscious effort to remain self-sufficient and connected to our true selves, our beings will be open and free, and there will always be space for Spirit to flow through.

[suzzycowgirl]

hey Skyhaven, This is a great post, thank you!

[greybeard]

Great post Skyhaven
A lot of truth in it.

Alcoholism got me into the spiritual search --I had to admit that my actions were insane and I had no control over drinking--I was beaten.
Through AA Came to believe in a Power Greater than myself which restored me to sanity.

Now If I had not gone through all of that, would I have seriously started to investigate spirituality---I honestly dont know.
There was something in me from day one that was gentle and loving--probably is in everyone--I just felt different from my rough and ready peers.

Anyway great post Skyhaven.
Much love
Chris

[ZooLife]

Consciously we are 100% in thus world so what about the 0%?

The 0% is speechless, utterly silent, and holy.

0% takes my breath away.

https://johnsamazingbucketlist.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/97-1.jpeg?w=258&h=223

http://cdn.onegreenplanet.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/10//2015/03/husky7.jpg

http://i2.2photo.ru/v/4/602815.jpg

<3

[Meggings]

https://scontent-yyz1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/12065811_10154334497178136_9092512720722876301_n.jpg?oh=6f6ae5256a682c07484830cbce02ea50&oe=56BDF5CE

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/520FABF4-257A-4280-84EE-D8687DC6C736_zpskzsl92ct.jpg

[Meggings]

http://themindunleashed.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/you-re-god-700x484.jpg

[boundless]

Truly a masterpiece, A Course in Miracles has been such a profound tool in my experience. So much so I made a movie about it. I don't experience life the same...hehe :highfive: lzPdonqRMbU

[Wind]

Seekers of Truth,
Whatever is born out of time,
you need not be concerned about.
Let life take care of that. Let life take care of life.
Keep quiet and let your mind rest inside your heart.
Don't worry. Right now belongs only to now.
Just be now.
There are no demands, requirements and conditions.
You are simply here. As you confirm this
and pay attention to this simple fact,
the whole world becomes a harmony
right in front of you.

~ Mooji

[greybeard]

Truly a masterpiece, A Course in Miracles has been such a profound tool in my experience. So much so I made a movie about it. I don't experience life the same...hehe :highfive: lzPdonqRMbU

Welcome to the thread boundless.
Yes ACIM has made a big difference here too.

Chris

[Guish]

People who really have
Their minds on the Way
Do not forget work on the fundamental
No matter what they are doing.
Yet if they still distinguish this work
From ordinary activities
Even as they do them together,
They will naturally be concerned
About being distracted by activities
And forgetting the meditation work.
This is because of viewing
Things as outside the mind.

- Muso (1275-1351)

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/D28783A3-E03C-4B20-A228-E97280D0D83F_zpsyphk05i3.jpg

[ZooLife]

The 'right' path is subjective, just ask this guy.... ;)

http://static.fjcdn.com/pictures/Hmm+maybe+i+ll+just+take+a+right+here+o_1e104d_4191133.png

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/6587A8BF-5C0D-40C3-A2F4-B8EAC9B6CA6B_zpsmignux7s.jpg

[greybeard]

The 'right' path is subjective, just ask this guy.... ;)

http://static.fjcdn.com/pictures/Hmm+maybe+i+ll+just+take+a+right+here+o_1e104d_4191133.png

Think this is an animal Zen teacher.
Aren’t they all.

Chris

[Matthew]

Animals as teachers. An animal teacher I find profound is Koko. But then I learned she had a friend, Michael. As well as communicate with sign language they paint. I've included a piece by Michael. I learnt most of this from this YouTube video mostly about Koko.
teB-Icrog6E

Here's some of Michaels art. 'Stink' in gorillia sign means flowers apparently.
"Stink Gorilla More" by Michael
http://www.koko.org/sites/default/files/root/images/store/art/stink2.jpg

[Innocent Warrior]

PZAOs5nkK2g

[joeecho]

Meaning, the stronger they are made to be, the stronger the emotions.

That seed of meaning is sowed in the mind, created just as the mind itself was created.

Meaning is what 'makes' things real, it's no wonder they seem so convincing.

https://helencotteedotcom.files.wordpress.com/2014/06/1080p-landcape-wallpaper-of-sailboat-landscape-wallpaper-at-sea.jpg

https://kellyfornian.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/song-of-the-sea.jpg


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FO5ijPecVY

[Skyhaven]

PZAOs5nkK2g

Wow, thanks, lovely :heart:

0aQslMHDYCs

[Guish]

Attaining the heart
Of the sutra,
Are not even the sounds
Of the bustling marketplace
The preaching of the Dharma?

- Dogen (1200-1253)

[Innocent Warrior]

Wow, thanks, lovely :heart:

0aQslMHDYCs

:heart:

Spot on. I truly believe we are the peace outside when we stop the war inside. That's why I find detachment so liberating and peaceful, the fear was that I would be disconnecting but they are not the same and, of course, disconnection is impossible. Once I detached sufficiently (still a ways to go), from mind and need, anything other than the light that is me, the connection emerged clearer than ever. I do my best to just let it all go every day and just be me.

"When you meet death fully... you will see you are the life." That's my favourite part. :)

[Skyhaven]

Wow, thanks, lovely :heart:

0aQslMHDYCs

:heart:

Spot on. I truly believe we are the peace outside when we stop the war inside. That's why I find detachment so liberating and peaceful, the fear was that I would be disconnecting but they are not the same and, of course, disconnection is impossible. Once I detached sufficiently (still a ways to go), from mind and need, anything other than the light that is me, the connection emerged clearer than ever. I do my best to just let it all go every day and just be me.

"When you meet death fully... you will see you are the life." That's my favourite part. :)

There something so true to all these paradoxes. That's what I love about the tao te ching too. It's saying if you seek something, look at the other side of what you seek. CG Jung says the same when he says too look for enlightenment in the shadow self. In physics they bump into the same paradoxes, Niels Bohr who came up with quantum mechanics used paradoxes as I guide for his theories, which then proved right:

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/291E9F94-BA08-4746-AE59-B2E173B6B784_zpssxlkxaxs.jpg

[joeecho]

All paradoxes are a hint at the Truth. Once one discovers the Truth it cannot be fully expressed for once it is expressed it becomes a paradox and thus a hint.

(A hint is not the Truth)

http://ak-hdl.buzzfed.com/static/enhanced/webdr05/2013/7/31/15/enhanced-buzz-21918-1375298608-5.jpg

(hint, hint ;) )

[Guish]

November 16th, 2015

“What do you mean by the true Buddha,
The true Dharma and the true Way?
Would you be good enough to explain to us?”
The Master said,
“Buddha—this is the cleanness
And purity of the mind.
The Dharma—this is the shining
Brightness of the mind.
The Way—this is the light
That is never obstructed anywhere.
The three are in fact one.
All are empty names and
Have no true reality.”
- Lin-chi (d.867)

[Wind]

Very often, on the direct path to Self-knowledge,
the mind seems to charge in the form of resistances, doubts and fears very strongly.
Expect this. Your love and urge for Truth is under attack but don't worry,
the power and advantage is still with you for yourself and Truth are one.
Always this happens on the direct path.
Remember, you are the untouched presence observing the entire battles and drama of the person.
You don't need to move the mind aside to get to Truth for Truth is not apart from you.
Simply recognise and stay as the witnessing Self.
The most profound victory is when the negative mind has no more significance for you, no attraction.
This is the case when you are clear that you are the formless and unchanging Self.

~ Mooji

[greybeard]

Who Can Limit You? -- A Guided Meditation with Mooji


Published on 20 Mar 2015

In the space of your Being
all manifest appearances
they appear
they arise
and dissolve
in the infinite space of Being.

This is witnessed in you.

- Mooji


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3CrZ7g3dyc

[Innocent Warrior]

Very often, on the direct path to Self-knowledge,
the mind seems to charge in the form of resistances, doubts and fears very strongly.
Expect this. Your love and urge for Truth is under attack but don't worry,
the power and advantage is still with you for yourself and Truth are one.
Always this happens on the direct path.
Remember, you are the untouched presence observing the entire battles and drama of the person.
You don't need to move the mind aside to get to Truth for Truth is not apart from you.
Simply recognise and stay as the witnessing Self.
The most profound victory is when the negative mind has no more significance for you, no attraction.
This is the case when you are clear that you are the formless and unchanging Self.

~ Mooji

I love this, so alchemic. :) And aint this the truth, it's war of consciousness in here! Some battles are won, many are lost, but always I grow.

[betoobig]

Trying to accomplish being the witness, mindless, through out the day... kind of meditating all day long while doing regular stuff (like making the beds); not thinking just witnessing. Very calm... i love Mooji´s videos. Thanks Graybeard...
... much love

[ZooLife]

Very often, on the direct path to Self-knowledge,
the mind seems to charge in the form of resistances, doubts and fears very strongly.
Expect this. Your love and urge for Truth is under attack but don't worry,
the power and advantage is still with you for yourself and Truth are one.
Always this happens on the direct path.
Remember, you are the untouched presence observing the entire battles and drama of the person.
You don't need to move the mind aside to get to Truth for Truth is not apart from you.
Simply recognise and stay as the witnessing Self.
The most profound victory is when the negative mind has no more significance for you, no attraction.
This is the case when you are clear that you are the formless and unchanging Self.

~ Mooji

I love this, so alchemic. :) And aint this the truth, it's war of consciousness in here! Some battles are won, many are lost, but always I grow.


There are no winners in the war of consciousness, well, none that can speak anyways.


http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bZqV6eT83D4/VM0XyipEm3I/AAAAAAAABfo/y_lbIiE9g5k/s1600/Silence%2Bspeaks%2Bwhen%2Bwords%2Bcan't..png

http://i.ytimg.com/vi/7_cpVzghhtY/maxresdefault.jpg

[ZooLife]

You could've come over to my side
You could've let me know
You could've tried to see the distance between us
But it seemed too far for you to go.
(so far to go) -- 'Do You Remember' Phil Collins

http://data2.whicdn.com/images/56968658/large.jpg

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/5d/87/35/5d8735322f445a9ab437b5745a661954.jpg

<3

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/3D7355F9-8D37-4913-A184-CF5D0125ABEC_zpszsb3ptkr.jpg

[Valley]

http://projectavalon.net/forum4/attachment.php?attachmentid=31853&cid=1&stc=1

[transiten]

Before enlightenment:confused:: chop wood, carry water.
After Enlightenment:idea:: chop wood, carry water.

Buddhist proverb.

[Clear Light]

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/1b/5a/54/1b5a5436cdaeadc07a37bb32f67208c0.jpg

Non-sense or Non-Self (no-Self) ???

So if there is no-Individual-Self who is it that gets Enlightened ? No-one !!!

:sun:

[Skyhaven]

Haha, very funny.

[greybeard]

Haha, very funny.

Advaita police say.

Who is it that is laughing?
Search and find that One

Chris says
Im joking ----I think!!!

[greybeard]

Good to see you posting here transiten

Much love
Chris

[Guish]

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/1b/5a/54/1b5a5436cdaeadc07a37bb32f67208c0.jpg

Non-sense or Non-Self (no-Self) ???

So if there is no-Individual-Self who is it that gets Enlightened ? No-one !!!

:sun:


Very obvious though. Feeding to maintain the body VS attachment to food, greed for more.

[Clear Light]

[Cafeteria Image]

Non-sense or Non-Self (no-Self) ???

So if there is no-Individual-Self who is it that gets Enlightened ? No-one !!!

:sun:


Very obvious though. Feeding to maintain the body VS attachment to food, greed for more.

Hmmm ... what is very obvious ?

Oh, it's not a trick question ... I just want to be sure of what you mean before I reply ...

[Matthew]

feeding to maintain the body VS attachment to food

It wasn't obvious to me either but I like the observation

The other day I was thinking I'm quite enlightened, but the last few days I realise I'm off my path. I'm currently living in the future again. At least it's not the past though. I did that for a while.... but I can't go back.

My path is straight and narrow but it doesn't feel like it when I'm on it. And I don't identify it by it's straight and narrowness, because there are no end of straight and narrow paths. I look down at my feat and realise I'm on the path already and it's defined by the next step I take.

Now I've shared this here's some music
XGK84Poeynk

[greybeard]

The clue is in the sign ( NON SELF) SERVICE as opposed to (SELF) SERVICE.
perhaps it should have been (No self)
chris

[greybeard]

"To endeavor to evolve spiritually is the greatest gift one can give. It actually uplifts all mankind from within because of the nature of power itself. Power radiates and is shared...All society is subliminally and subtly influenced by every kind and loving thought, word, or deed. Every forgiveness is a benefit to everyone."

Quoting
The Eye of the I pg 204
Written by the late Dr David Hawkins

Great book, I can recommend this.

Chris

[Clear Light]

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IG6-I559JXA/UZ5UtquTFoI/AAAAAAAACC8/reRz8Cdgym8/s1600/BuddhaRadiantFormBG.png

The inconceivable enlightened radiance of no-self as it shines unobstructedly eh ?

[ZooLife]

At one point in my life I endeavored (reading book after book and pushing my mind like a professional athlete at the gym etc.) to evolve spiritually but now, mostly, it flows how it flows when it flows....if that makes sense.

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/55/fe/85/55fe8576dc77b50d99c1391dd168644f.gif

https://uldissprogis.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/flow-2.gif?w=625

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/a3/35/43/a33543ba39226d10d4e72fbf135a6138.gif

http://likecool.com/Gear/Pic/Gif%20flowing/Gif-flowing.gif

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/5FFC0DE6-6D17-4928-B14C-CCB48755E710_zpsz94fq1op.jpg

[Wind]

http://www.mindpodnetwork.com/mpn/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/singer-300x300.jpg


You will come to see that the mind talks all the time because you give it a job to do. You use it as a protection mechanism, a form of defense. Ultimately, it makes you feel more secure. As long as that is what you want, you will be forced to constantly use your mind to buffer yourself from life, instead of living it. This world is unfolding and really has very little to do with you or your thoughts. It was here long before you came, and it will be here long after you leave. In the name of attempting to hold the world together, you’re really just trying to hold yourself together.

True personal growth is about transcending the part of you that is not okay and needs protection. This is done by constantly remembering that you are the one inside that notices the voice talking. That is the way out. The one inside who is aware that you are always talking to yourself about yourself is always silent. It is a doorway to the depths of your being. To be aware that you are watching the voice talk is to stand on the threshold of a fantastic inner journey. If used properly, the same mental voice that has been a source of worry, distraction, and general neurosis can become the launching ground for true spiritual awakening. Come to know the one who watches the voice, and you will come to know one of the great mysteries of creation. ~ Michael A. Singer

[joeecho]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/5FFC0DE6-6D17-4928-B14C-CCB48755E710_zpsz94fq1op.jpg

I've experienced this many times from books, movies, symbols, word(s), going back to read prior posts on Avalon etc.. Sometimes history comes alive this way and feels fresh again with new I's.

As an example I feel I could view certain works many times over the course of my life and get something intriguing and new from it each time.

http://www.freakingnews.com/pictures/49500/Spiral-of-Time--49797.jpg

[Wind]

When you begin to become conscious, more aware, when your eyes begin to open, the first thing you see is how deluded you are and how much you’re holding onto that which makes you suffer. This is, in many ways, the most important step: Are you willing to be aware?” - Adyashanti

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpl1/v/t1.0-9/12241530_711809222288979_9139602729023009514_n.jpg?oh=f44bef1a4d1704f06c1aca8966c4a686&oe=56F8C7C6&__gda__=1457958986_9a7793c36cef9a98da048873bf70ebfa

[joeecho]

When you begin to become conscious, more aware, when your eyes begin to open, the first thing you see is how deluded you are and how much you’re holding onto that which makes you suffer. This is, in many ways, the most important step: Are you willing to be aware?” - Adyashanti


This quote resonates with me and I also see a plot twist to it.....

One becomes aware of ones delusions and holding on to them is a source of suffering..... I get that.....sooooo....could THAT awareness also be a form of delusion with all the trimmings as well, just at a different level?

In that sense, I think the question "Are you willing to be aware?” is a loaded question.

Wouldn't it be fair to consider all awareness under the heading.... For Entertainment Purposes Only? I know this, at face value, flies in the face of all the wonderful things we talk about on this thread and I would never want it to stop.....

(pauses for a moment wondering if my post will be misunderstood)

>>>>>> I opened my mind and it took a walk on the wild side, ignore if you haven't been there or come along!

http://pre02.deviantart.net/9e06/th/pre/i/2013/099/d/7/come_take_a_walk_on_the_wild_side_by_xn3ctz-d60zj58.jpg

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/6c/b1/2f/6cb12f7c86e32288459af830da2d034a.jpg

[Meggings]

Joeecho writes: "...consider all awareness under the heading.... For Entertainment Purposes Only?"

Well now, when many years ago I found myself bopping along slightly above the heads of Roman centurions (the kind that wear metal helmets with red brushes on top), and I realized I was looking at Julius Caesar, and had many thoughts about the danger he was in and why was he not afraid....I asked WHY was I seeing that. There had to be a REASON for it.

(I was hung up on meaning; probably still am, but at least now after more than a decade of contemplation on this, I realize I make my own meaning for everything.)

The answer to this WHY came back as: "Because you could." Man-oh-man, that was unsatisfactory to my conscious ego mind. But Joeecho, I write this response to you because it is on a higher level than most live on, to realize it might really be for FUN, for entertainment.

I used to think seriously, having been born serious and thoughtful, that things had to MEAN something and have purpose. The purpose, according to my hgiher self, is to do things because you can, because you want to, because of having fun.

I mean, I was once gone for two and a half days out of body, and when I came back such divine power roared through me that my very eyes were beams of light. Yet no one saw it, and my poor piddling limited conscious mind had no recollection of where I'd been or what I'd been doing.

Again I asked, and the answer came back that I was "everywhere in the mind of God". Not very satisfactory, is it?

In the years since then, I have while consciously awake and aware, travelled "high" through dimensional levels until I came to the most glorious vision of a spiralling of sparkling diamond arms with a black hole in the middle of it, and I heard myself command with authority, "In the Name of the Almighty", whereupon I went through the black hole, out of the physical universes, into levels of differentiated blackness on the "other side" - having passed outside the duality expression into the realms of the "ineffable". I got through three levels, each containing levels of blackeness, before my conscious mind "passed out" and I remembered nothing more.

So what do I do but ask, where did I go? And the answer came back that I'd "climbed Jacob's ladder" up the levels. Again, how unsatisfactory is that? So i did what I did because I could do it, and thought it would be "fun"?

Who knows. But I sure have done and seen some pretty interesting things.

For entertainment purposes, eh what? Yet I cannot shake that there is purpose underlying...I still am attached to meaning.

And here I echo Joe-echo's words: "...pauses for a moment wondering if my post will be misunderstood."

[greybeard]

This meditation is fairly long but punctuated by Om so can be paused or restarted later.
It is very good at pointing out what you are not---excellent.

Chris



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2UJ_JcoR_Q

[greybeard]

There is a Crowded House song called "Now we are getting some where" the song may not be relevant to the thread but the title is.
Thanks Joeecho and Meggins for those posts.
Its all levels of understanding and dare I say misunderstanding---all seems so real. Its an insult at one level to be told the pain that you are holding is not yours--yet fully understood at another. In the Mooji video I just posted he states "Everything is happening spontaneously"--that about covers it.
It has no personal element. Its the difference between being at the movie or being part of the movie.
The words don't do it but they point to the essence.
Self is experiencing through form---just as we do with a good film--not happening to what we are though.

C

[greybeard]

Further to Meggins experience I dont have an answer or comment on it but to say.
David Sereda had an identical experience---however in the video below Mooji points out that phenomena sees phenomena.
Only God (Self realised) sees God. Thats in the first few minutes---Mooji is being very direct in the video

Tim is a "resource" not fully used and if any questions arise they could perhaps be asked on his thread where I am sure they will be attended to.

With love
Chris


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6fbT4vKGp0

[Skyhaven]

Fully empty
Joyfully sad
Teaching no teaching
Seeing blind
Forever now
Together alone
A dark light
The pathless path

[greybeard]

"The end of your world" Adyashanti--Sounds True, set of cds is worth having--the last two are brilliant with some sensible questions asked.
They cover Kundalini movement and his awakening fully described.

I can not possibly suggest this but, if funds are not forth coming to purchase, perhaps a visit to Pirate Bay might be beneficial.

Love Chris

[Guish]

https://fbcdn-photos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xlp1/v/t1.0-0/p480x480/1797363_775390742569969_2181514617203223592_n.jpg?oh=76c31fd838b4052b4007b7f52c45e84c&oe=56F4ABA4&__gda__=1454242626_f28a202bd5e377b1a045546b0333896f

[Wind]

You say you don't want your person anymore.
You are tired of it, you say.
And all you want is for it to leave you alone.
You, who says this, is who?
Clarify this.
Is the pure awareness, the Self, saying these things?
Look into it now.
Who is so disturbed?
The one who says, 'I want the person to leave me alone,'
leave that one alone and stay as
the voiceless one.

~ Mooji

[Innocent Warrior]

He is too great to be called "God." He is hidden, yet obvious everywhere. He is bodiless, yet embodied in everything.
There is nothing that He is not. He has no name, because all names are His name. He is unity of all things, so we must know Him
by all names and call everything "God."
~ Hermes-Trismegistos

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CUPVlsjUkAArdf3.jpg

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/973F3925-7C14-4AD3-9C85-B3530E748377_zpssg7wm2py.jpg

[greybeard]

Tom cats are very welcome here lets face it they are enlightened.
With love of the feline and of course dogs.
Chris

[betoobig]

Miau........Roar
Have great SUnday.
Love

¤=[Post Update]=¤

extremly beutiful pic Rachel, thanks

[Clear Light]

OQT6FWOmkOU

What is this thing called "self"? Does it actually exist? In this deeply penetrating satsang on the central teaching of the Buddha, Adyashanti invites a direct investigation and experience of who we are. By recognizing our impersonal nature, we can discover the one reality that is beyond the imaginary self.

[greybeard]

There is a lot of light-hearted humour between this thread and Wind's Surfing---does my heart good to see this.
A few flakes of snow today---beats raining cats and dogs.

Much love
Chris

[greybeard]

Since the thread started it has had over 375,000 visits
If you google "enlightenment and related matters" you will find this thread comes up.
It is viewed by over 2500 every week consistently.
I find it refreshing that so many are interested in non-duality/enlightenment.
Keep the posts coming guys, you make a difference.

Much love to all who contribute and visit here.

Chris

[joeecho]

It's through imperfection that one is given their first hint.

http://images.nationalgeographic.com/wpf/media-live/photos/000/667/cache/storm-clouds-chile_66705_990x742.jpg

There are sure a lot of hints lying around.

http://cdn.niketalk.com/e/ee/ee0b77c7_hEE530D20.jpeg

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/Mobile%20Uploads/2013-09/DA9C9096-AF3D-429B-B00D-CC063875D036_zpsia73zjx3.jpg

[Skyhaven]

But that's not to say it isn't a great accomplishment when one makes it back to the natural state after being in such a elaborate maze of distractions, temptations, fears, falsehoods, anger and hurt. But then again, it is the ego that does the 'accomplishing', so that means it is a great accomplishment of the ego to kill itself. :sun:

[ulli]

It was like breaking through the sound barrier. August 8, 1977.
Life changing, and highly addictive.
Afterwards my mind was never running the show of my life again,
but rather, it became a tool, to be used only when necessary.

[greybeard]

Nice to see you sharing such an event here Ulli

Much love to you
Chris

[Guish]

If you understand, things are just as they are; if you do not understand, things are just as they are

[joeecho]

One will think they have discovered the unknown only to find out later that it was only a tease.

http://45.media.tumblr.com/b84f7b83ba7573fd7b1835c5339aef5e/tumblr_nc5f2tA0x21twj7sxo1_500.gif

[Chester]

Hi greyest of beards...

I may have made it. Well - that old "i" is what I am pointing to.

I find my mind lately encountering counter arguments to all my arguments. And counter arguments to the counter arguments and on and on to the border of insanity only to realize... there is no border and I have been completely insane all along.

What a relief!

What do you think?

[Grizz Griswold]

“And what would you do,” if God spoke directly
to your face and said,

‘I COMMAND THAT YOU BE
HAPPY IN THE WORLD, AS
LONG AS YOU LIVE.’ What
would you do then?”

With Love
b

[Chester]

“And what would you do,” if God spoke directly
to your face and said,

‘I COMMAND THAT YOU BE
HAPPY IN THE WORLD, AS
LONG AS YOU LIVE.’ What
would you do then?”

With Love
b

I would ask "God" -

"Why (then) do you keep setting me up for suffering?"

[Guish]

“And what would you do,” if God spoke directly
to your face and said,

‘I COMMAND THAT YOU BE
HAPPY IN THE WORLD, AS
LONG AS YOU LIVE.’ What
would you do then?”

With Love
b


I would ask "God" -

"Why (then) do you keep setting me up for suffering?"

Isn't most of the pain self inflicted?

[greybeard]

Hi greyest of beards...

I may have made it. Well - that old "i" is what I am pointing to.

I find my mind lately encountering counter arguments to all my arguments. And counter arguments to the counter arguments and on and on to the border of insanity only to realize... there is no border and I have been completely insane all along.

What a relief!

What do you think?

Well Sam. I might get my Dr to check back and see if I got a "certificate of sanity" when I was released after time (9month) in a mental institution for alcoholism.
If I got one, then im one of the few who can truly say they are not insane. laughing madly. Got the certificate to prove it.

I gave up on mind (ego) yet again first thing this morning but he is like a faithful pet that follows me about, I throw him a tit bit from time to time.
He's not really mine but Im responsible for what he gets up to--or am I?

You being infinite --have no borders.

Much love
Chris

[Grizz Griswold]

“And what would you do,” if God spoke directly
to your face and said,

‘I COMMAND THAT YOU BE
HAPPY IN THE WORLD, AS
LONG AS YOU LIVE.’ What
would you do then?”

With Love
b

I would ask "God" -

"Why (then) do you keep setting me up for suffering?"

Happiness is a decision, We make, suffering just happens!

With Love
b

[Grizz Griswold]

“And what would you do,” if God spoke directly
to your face and said,

‘I COMMAND THAT YOU BE
HAPPY IN THE WORLD, AS
LONG AS YOU LIVE.’ What
would you do then?”

With Love
b


I would ask "God" -

"Why (then) do you keep setting me up for suffering?"

Isn't most of the pain self inflicted?

Yes, to those who can take responsibility for it.

With Love
b

[Guish]

Because they have no high
Opinions of themselves,
The sages’ minds are luminous;
Not caring for status,
They become illustrious;
Being without pride,
They achieve success;
Unassertive, they are supreme.
Because they do not contend,
No one contends with them.

- Lao-tzu

[joeecho]

Self will, often times, appear to be trying to escape (or chase) pain (or pleasure) but that would be like one trying to escape or chase oneself. If one has a tail/ tale it can be done and from whence the greatest tails originate from.

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/4c/7d/96/4c7d96e9386396778e86a8fdc3aeed5a.gif

http://37.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m690fygh1p1rxjzcpo1_250.gif

[Chester]

“And what would you do,” if God spoke directly
to your face and said,

‘I COMMAND THAT YOU BE
HAPPY IN THE WORLD, AS
LONG AS YOU LIVE.’ What
would you do then?”

With Love
b


I would ask "God" -

"Why (then) do you keep setting me up for suffering?"

Isn't most of the pain self inflicted?

Who is the self?

[joeecho]

“And what would you do,” if God spoke directly
to your face and said,

‘I COMMAND THAT YOU BE
HAPPY IN THE WORLD, AS
LONG AS YOU LIVE.’ What
would you do then?”

With Love
b


I would ask "God" -

"Why (then) do you keep setting me up for suffering?"

Isn't most of the pain self inflicted?

Who is the self?

The same that asks.

[greybeard]

Its all mind stuff---I saw a U tube video of a little girl literally frightened of her shadow.
As grown ups we can laugh at that, but it sure was very real for the child.

Ramana was dying of cancer and was asked if this was painful---his response "There is pain"
He did not identify with it but was not in avoidance.
This gives rise to the expressions "There is nothing personal--nothing is happening to "you", "there never was a you, as in person"
" there never was anyone there to do anything to you"
That is all very deep.-, but its down to identifying with what is happening.

Ego is basically identification with the story of "me"

Paul Hedderman is very good to listen to on this subject--he calls it selfing.

Love Chris

[Chester]

@ greybeard - forgive my Monday morning humor... that's why I asked "What do you think?"

and... it is clear to me now that all I have been doing all my life is... "selfing off."

also - my response to Grizz could be read as "taunting" when in fact, the "COMMAND" post was well appreciated by "this self."

@ joeecho - POW! you got me... Thanks man, Sam.

Now to be very, very serious.

I am really glad to be back here.

[joeecho]

Its all mind stuff---I saw a U tube video of a little girl literally frightened of her shadow.
As grown ups we can laugh at that, but it sure was very real for the child.

Ramana was dying of cancer and was asked if this was painful---his response "There is pain"
He did not identify with it but was not in avoidance.
This gives rise to the expressions "There is nothing personal--nothing is happening to "you", "there never was a you, as in person"
" there never was anyone there to do anything to you"
That is all very deep.-, but its down to identifying with what is happening.

Ego is basically identification with the story of "me"

Paul Hedderman is very good to listen to on this subject--he calls it selfing.

Love Chris

That is like the process one goes through in identify what a refection is or what reflecting is.

Reflecting is fascinating particularly when one sees the analogy of being in a house of mirrors.

[greybeard]

Great to have you back Sam ---you have a way of bringing humour to the thread as do others in their own way.
It does not do to be serious especially after the Griz post---enjoy enjoy.

Much love
Chris

[Grizz Griswold]

@ greybeard - forgive my Monday morning humor... that's why I asked "What do you think?"

and... it is clear to me now that all I have been doing all my life is... "selfing off."

also - my response to Grizz could be read as "taunting" when in fact, the "COMMAND" post was well appreciated by "this self."

@ joeecho - POW! you got me... Thanks man, Sam.

Now to be very, very serious.

I am really glad to be back here.

Sometimes a rubber band let go against the skin, helps us to awaken,
A good jostle, can be helpful...LOL

Glad You're back Sam
b

[joeecho]

@ greybeard - forgive my Monday morning humor... that's why I asked "What do you think?"

and... it is clear to me now that all I have been doing all my life is... "selfing off."

also - my response to Grizz could be read as "taunting" when in fact, the "COMMAND" post was well appreciated by "this self."

@ joeecho - POW! you got me... Thanks man, Sam.

Now to be very, very serious.

I am really glad to be back here.

Sometimes a rubber band let go against the skin, helps us to awaken,
A good jostle, can be helpful...LOL

Glad You're back Sam
b

http://www.awesomelyluvvie.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Oh-snap.gif ;)

[joeecho]

"Snap out of it" is used when one has fallen into a trance, ignorance or lost in reflection.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZfGTL2PY3E

I have had a smile on my face after 'snapping out of it' because I know where I've been.

Now, YOU, reading this post, SNAP OUT OF IT and make in snappy! :P

(I just received an image of all of us gathered around having a rubber band fight)

http://i.imgur.com/zkVhzai.jpeg

Trust me......

[greybeard]

Isnt this fun!!
A happy band having enjoying life.

Ch

[Skyhaven]

This place is like a hut with ten guru's in it, very funny, loving every bit of it!

[joeecho]

This place is like a hut with ten guru's in it, very funny, loving every bit of it!

Amen, brother, amen!

Now I must to ask you, are you prepared?

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rSqlCJ4og4U/Uv513SPfgwI/AAAAAAAAJo8/dHEoWMDlwVs/s1600/3024712-inline-360-view.gif

[Grizz Griswold]

Awakening/Enlightenment is not to be taken lightly.
Work and struggle, to make Your way until blood runs from
Your nose, ears and arse.............NOT!!!!

iNxujJGnbB4

Love
bee

[greybeard]

Well Griz no one in their right mind would have signed up for this.
However!!!!
The last one out of the hut tonight remember to leave the light on.
Mind you not one of us know where the off switch is-------- do I?

Love

[joeecho]

Well Griz no one in their right mind would have signed up for this.
However!!!!
The last one out of the hut tonight remember to leave the light on.
Mind you not one of us know where the off switch is-------- do I?

Love

There's a switch? Imagine that!

http://netdna.coolthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/frankenstein-light-switch-1.jpg

Whoops, I think my imagination is a little off.

[Grizz Griswold]

Getting the funny feeling joeedho and Chris are planning something.,,hmmm
That switch looks like something that belongs on an electric chair, I guess
I have to stand barefoot in a bucket of water when i pull the switch.

Oh well, probably work better than the rubber band, and more stimulating than a
cup of coffee. OK, I'll try it, but just once!

Gsh_JDnwYhk

Much Love
b

[zen deik]

And who told you you were naked,,,,

[ZooLife]

Speaking of snapping out of it, there is a touch of it in a song by Charlene called "I've Never Been To Me". Though not all the lyrics apply, the subject in the song nearly 'snapped out of it', IMO.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QhQWND9jKDA


I've been to paradise, but I've never been to me


Won't you share a part of a weary heart that has lived a million lies

Note: In the last quote above I take the liberty of saying one can insert 'lives' where 'lies' is in the lyrics.

One can experience Paradise or Hell through a million lives and have never been to (realized) ME.

ME, in this case, is that indescribable or unknown as a conscious entity would try to understand/ describe 'it'.

We are always 'been to ME' but consciously we don't realizes it but we can get a glimpse in those moments when we 'snap OUT of it'.

(Pause)

I love the idea of the rubber band fight, JoeEcho, much FUN!

At the apex of the fighting, will we all snap simultaneously together and be transported to ME? :)

(Pause)

My apologies if this post is a bit ramble-ly, words fail me at times......

https://images.rapgenius.com/07a3224bae48138013515d9562e6fc5e.640x427x1.jpg


<3

[greybeard]

Well Griz no one in their right mind would have signed up for this.
However!!!!
The last one out of the hut tonight remember to leave the light on.
Mind you not one of us know where the off switch is-------- do I?

Love

There's a switch? Imagine that!

http://netdna.coolthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/frankenstein-light-switch-1.jpg

Whoops, I think my imagination is a little off.

We could start a separate thread about this unidentified switch--on second thoughts lets stay with what we are comfortable with--NO-THING.

As for who told me I am naked--the same folk that gave me a name.

As ever ch

[greybeard]

Good to get some feminine intuition on the thread ZooLife.
Much love
Chris

[greybeard]

Good to see your post zen deik
Nudists and nameless welcome here.
Love
Chris

[ZooLife]

As for who told me I am naked--the same folk that gave me a name.


The same that told you you're clothed in nakedness.

http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/8f/d2/dd/8fd2dd8e093639c9c327cc9e19f21dda.jpg

http://quotes.lifehack.org/media/quotes/quote-Princess-Diana-i-like-to-be-a-free-spirit-91361.png

[Clear Light]

Ah, this one is for us Religious Folks here at P.A. :dance:



Last Night a DJ Saved My Life ...

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/f1/f7/d6/f1f7d6ef95a188ad053af513aa4a4aa5.jpg

[Innocent Warrior]

extremly beutiful pic Rachel, thanks

My pleasure. I found this beauty today, it's my new desktop photo.



Verily, I tell you, the world is within this six foot high body.
~ The Buddha

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CUgtUNbWEAA_hFa.jpg:large

[Guish]

Realise it's your own mess
Take responsibility
Till the act dissolves
Till there is no one to act, no one to suffer and no one to look after
Make yourself tiny
So that the whole world can show itself
So that everyone can be yours
Yet no one is really yours
They reflect yourself
If you are nothing
They can be anything
Is that not the real thing?

[greybeard]

U.F.O. --Now that we have undeniable picture evidence of the existence of this, should we share it with the world? Perhaps there will be many sightings now.

Unidentified. Flicking.Object. brought to us in post 4683 by the intrepid joeecho --with unlimited power to imagine.
Now is the flicking switch in on mode or off?
A bucket of water with instructions, supplied by Grizz, will be given to the first and possibly the last to experiment with this.

Smiling --Chris

[greybeard]

Yes the "path" to enlightenment is the most demanding, difficult, endeavour attempted.
The Mount Everest of spirituality.
Blood sweat and tears.
However there are many fringe benefits---calm disposition for one.
Weird sense of humour helps greatly--so there is fun along the way too.
But the non work must seem to happen, relentlessly, consistently.

Much love
Chris

[Guish]

A fight won by not fighting
Success achieved when one lets go of success
Effort would seem effortless
Loss of identity would plunge oneself into serenity
One would run out of words
One would be still inside the cyclone
One wouldn't shake as the body melts.

[Grizz Griswold]

U.F.O. --Now that we have undeniable picture evidence of the existence this, should we share it with the world perhaps there will be many sightings now

Unidentified. Flicking.Object. brought to us in post 4683 by the intrepid joeecho --with unlimited power to imagine.
Now is the flicking switch in on mode or off?
A bucket of water with instructions, supplied by Grizz, will be given to the first and possibly the last to experiment with this.

Smiling --Chris

Ch

Could be a shocking experience and might as well make it as fun as possible.

“Remember where you came from, where you’re going, and why you created the mess you got yourself into in the first place. You're going to die a horrible death, remember. It's all good training, and you'll enjoy it more if you keep the facts in mind. Take your dying with some seriousness, however. Laughing on the way to your execution is not generally understood by less-advanced life-forms, and they'll call you crazy.”
― Richard Bach, Illusions: The Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah

Don't mind being called crazy!...Smiling

As for joeecho, sometimes something imagined is more real than this
Illusion, most call reality....keep it up joeecho!

Full of mud and with Love
b

[joeecho]

U.F.O. --Now that we have undeniable picture evidence of the existence this, should we share it with the world perhaps there will be many sightings now

Unidentified. Flicking.Object. brought to us in post 4683 by the intrepid joeecho --with unlimited power to imagine.
Now is the flicking switch in on mode or off?
A bucket of water with instructions, supplied by Grizz, will be given to the first and possibly the last to experiment with this.

Smiling --Chris

Ch

Could be a shocking experience and might as well make it as fun as possible.

“Remember where you came from, where you’re going, and why you created the mess you got yourself into in the first place. You're going to die a horrible death, remember. It's all good training, and you'll enjoy it more if you keep the facts in mind. Take your dying with some seriousness, however. Laughing on the way to your execution is not generally understood by less-advanced life-forms, and they'll call you crazy.”
― Richard Bach, Illusions: The Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah

Don't mind being called crazy!...Smiling

As for joeecho, sometimes something imagined is more real that this
Illusion, most call reality....keep it up joeecho!

Full of mud and with Love
b

Well said, Grizz!

I like that quote by Richard Bach. I read that book many many years ago and forgot he said that. Excellent!

Here is a quote I thought up 'on the fly' while writing this post.

"It's not a great feat to fly high above the mountains when one imagines they have mighty wings." -- JoeEcho

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_MUR6kPNcxM/VSr5DqsBwwI/AAAAAAAAZ-o/sdcSyCxlxJE/s1600/DSC_1144.jpg

Best to all,

Joe

[greybeard]

Joe said "Well said, Grizz!

I like that quote by Richard Bach. I read that book many many years ago and forgot he said that. Excellent!

Here is a quote I thought up 'on the fly' while writing this post.

"It's not a great feat to fly high above the mountains when one imagines they have mighty wings." -- JoeEcho"

I could echo that Joe.
I really like "The Reluctant Messiah"
Richard Bach reads the audio version brilliantly--a great story teller.
Well enough fun for the moment---dishes to do.
Paul Hedderman said that "The moment meditation is more important than doing the dishes, you are in trouble"

Much love
c

[joeecho]

Well enough fun for the moment---dishes to do.
Paul Hedderman said that "The moment meditation is more important than doing the dishes, you are in trouble"


Is that why my dishes keep piling up? I thought if the pile went high enough they would get fed up and start washing themselves!

At the moment the experiment appears to be failing, or is it?

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uHYftX6Y3fE/TtIiMlSFEwI/AAAAAAAACPY/6EAQh9wlKQ0/s1600/dishranawaywithspoon2.bmp

[6pounder]

Hello every one I'm a new member here and I would like to put some of my experience about ego in this thread

During some of my studies in the field of social dynamics, one of the major taskes to make a progress was to "give up" on my ego. I was thought to look on the ego as a defense mechanism of the mind and social status. So I decided to simply put my guards down (or "give up" on my ego). My personality changed in 180 degrees. My perspective on everything changed. I put my "self" in the bottom of the priority list and started to pay more attention to my surroundings. That was a great enlightenment to me.

[greybeard]

Welcome to the thread 6pounder.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
Your post is appreciated
Chris

[betoobig]

Wellcome to Avalon 6punder. You are in the right place, with us.
Much Love
Juan

[Wind]

To be happy and unattached is the best.
To be happy and attached is rarely stable.
You may enjoy a relationship, a place, or some favourite
thing, but if you are attached,
it means you are not really free, you see.
Now, to enjoy without attachment is very rare indeed.
Attachments often create expectations,
projections, dependencies, clinging and consequently,
suffering. Who has not tasted this?
When the thing you desperately desire is not available,
suffering rains like hot sulphur from the skies.
The wise really know this.

What is greater:
that there is no more desire
or that there is no more desirer?
Contemplate this.

~ Mooji

[Wind]

There is a gem that is rarely seen in this world.
This gem is one whose heart is free of desire
but is full of love for Truth.
Such a one shines with the light and presence
of the Supreme Lord.
Find him within yourself.

~ Mooji

[Guish]

Suffering happens when one does not let things happen
Either you're holding too hard
Or you are scared of holding.

[Guish]

VpOz_AQIZns

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/2B46589C-0632-4189-AB1B-52FA7B1D014E_zps09iplqnz.jpg

[joeecho]

Self and all that has ever or will ever surrounded self:

When self/ consciousness arises it believes it's surrounding came before. There is also the other twist, that self/ consciousness arises before it's surroundings.

Do you believe one or the other?

http://images.firstcovers.com/covers/flash/n/nay_nay-373741.jpg

As above, so below.

[ZooLife]

Magic, the ability to appear in two (or more) places simultaneously. It is magic that creates and destroys, appearing and seemingly disappearing through observation yet this observing is one with this very magic to begin with.

To appear real yet not be in the same breath, well, that's MAGIC!!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MzlK0OGpIRs


Oh, ho, ho, it's magic, you know
Never believe it's not so
It's magic, you know
Never believe it's not so

https://malecodependence.files.wordpress.com/2012/06/letting-go.jpg

[Matthew]

Autumn eyes open
A winter experience
Hope springs eternal

[joeecho]

Autumn eyes open
A winter experience
Hope springs eternal

Summer pops on by and adds....

https://firstmusketeer.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/the_three_musketeers_one-for-all.jpg

[greybeard]

Nice Pic Joe---Im the One, NOT ME!!!
C

[joeecho]

1+1+1+1 = 1

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/dd/b7/80/ddb780068be7edd5d233e646d7120205.jpg

Go ahead, check my math.

Am I wrong?

http://www.funnfun.in/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/when-i-am-wrong-face-meme.jpg

[greybeard]

This is the way it feels at the moment.

As a teen I got interested in playing in a band.
There was a Fender Precision Bass in the Music Shop window.

I wanted it, I love it.

I read all I could find about it. Bass guitar was a new invention--Leo Fender got it right--most bassists use Fender to this day.
I listened to records with bass guitar on them.

Anyway I would visit the shop window every day--my nose pressed against the window---seemed almost every waking thought was about it--I was in love with it. I imagined holding it and all that goes with that. It was very real--I had it, yet I didnt--if that makes sense.
All that stood between me and the Fender was a glass window.

Now I sense there is little standing between "this" and Self Realisation.

Mooji meditations helpful--when he is finished I just remain still and quiet.
Some are long most about thirty minutes.

Here is the most used long one.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2UJ_JcoR_Q


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2UJ_JcoR_Q

[betoobig]

i agree Greybeard, mooji's meds are so simple yet so deep. I am greatfull you shared him. 100/ recomedable.
much love

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/F5FEFAE0-0169-4098-AD79-43E17546724A_zpsraa3hs5r.jpg

[joeecho]

Hi there!

'I' am here to distract YOU.
Lets talk about who you are, that will be a good distraction, right?

Who are you?

The question that created a thousand doors each opening to the next... though all doors can be seen, that can be seen, at once if you like.
Come with ME, we have thresholds to cross!

Yes, we have crossed many a threshold but that was a thousand doors ago.

http://static1.squarespace.com/static/52e864bfe4b09c239b5cafa1/t/53ea9d15e4b0fce80ad3a92e/1407884624421/doors_double.jpg?format=1500w

http://www.ikeadecoration.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/5517d__The-1000-doors-installation-in-Seoul-2.jpg

Knock Knock. Who's there?

https://41.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lqs524AqTc1r2wd83o1_500.jpg

[joeecho]

This is the way it feels at the moment.

As a teen I got interested in playing in a band.
There was a Fender Precision Bass in the Music Shop window.

I wanted it, I love it.

I read all I could find about it. Bass guitar was a new invention--Leo Fender got it right--most bassists use Fender to this day.
I listened to records with bass guitar on them.

Anyway I would visit the shop window every day--my nose pressed against the window---seemed almost every waking thought was about it--I was in love with it. I imagined holding it and all that goes with that. It was very real--I had it, yet I didnt--if that makes sense.
All that stood between me and the Fender was a glass window.

Now I sense there is little standing between "this" and Self Realisation.

Mooji meditations helpful--when he is finished I just remain still and quiet.
Some are long most about thirty minutes.

Here is the most used long one.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2UJ_JcoR_Q


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2UJ_JcoR_Q


With intended focus one can be one with one, a sacrifice if you will.

That's a wonderful experience however one is one without intent.

One is won without playing but then where is the FUN in that?



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ErpFZIr--jA


Smile, Darn You, Smile

You can be a goody two-shoes 'till the end of your days
You can listen to them say crime never pays
You can follow every law and be the big black bat
But why would you want to? Huh!

Where's the fun in that?
Where's the fun in that?

So, smile, darn you, smile (Ah...)
Everybody loves to grin
Follow my lead, recite my creed
And smile, darn you, smile

Don't listen to the dullets say that life is a bore
Those fuddy-duddies spoil my fun!
That's why I strive to eradicate gloom
It's from that itch I made the switch
And chose my nom de plume
The Joker!

There's the fun in that
Ha ha ha!
There's the fun it that

So, smile, darn you, smile (Ah...)
Everybody ought to laugh (Ooh!)
And so, with glee
I do decree.
Just smile, darn you, smile

So, when living gets a little rough
And you find it hard to cope
I'm the gent with just the stuff
To fill you full of hope

Just smile, darn you, smile (Ah...)
Everybody needs a clown
Now with one stroke, the final joke!
Just smile, darn you

Smile, darn you, smile (Ah...)
Everybody loves to grin
Follow my lead, recite my creed
And smile
Ha!
Darn you, smile

Ha ha ha!
I love it.

(Don't take these lyrics too seriously, Smile, Darn You, Smile! :) )

[greybeard]

Well Joe you certainly bring something special to the thread.
You think out of the box and I think that is part of moving forward--what ever that is.

Love Chris

[joeecho]

Well Joe you certainly bring something special to the thread.
You think out of the box and I think that is part of moving forward--what ever that is.

Love Chris

Which kind of 'special' do you speak of?

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/dd/1d/49/dd1d4937886e776f9356731586cff749.jpg

Do you see the WINK in that?

http://ct.weirdnutdaily.com/ol/wn/sw/i57/2/3/9/wnd_fb6ba714e7eb641446e0263bb06f5e9d.jpg

[greybeard]

Hi Joe
It would be easy for this thread to get boring--full of technicality--to actually loose the love, the heart which is a key element, to my mind---oops I mean to my heart.
There is a middle way with this thread--so many bring something different, special to the thread---keeps it alive and interesting.

One definition is "Form, formless, both and neither---ie beyond definition.

So we need all of that and nothing.

Much love to all.
Chris

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/C9FA50CE-2B9E-42F5-8547-9E36E0170252_zps93cya2rs.jpg

[Valley]

This thread, a 'needle'...
And we 'knead' the thread.
...Not 'need' the thread.

[joeecho]

Buddha In a Dream

If I am Buddha in a dream it is not a dream and if it is not a dream Buddha am I.

https://beyoutifulliving.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/buddha-awake.jpg?w=611&h=254

http://cdn.tinybuddha.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Buddha7.jpg

[greybeard]

Thanks for the thoughtful post Valley.
Love Chris

[ZooLife]

You're a sly one Mr. Ego. A sly one indeed.

http://cdn1.theodysseyonline.com/files/2015/04/08/635641034412827351-938761526_0754.png

I'm on to you.

https://emptystress.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/onto-you.jpg

[Valley]

Kind Chris...
Just another reflection of Bliss. :sun:
Blessings across the bow... :bowing:

[greybeard]

All you need in this shorter video from Mooji.
You are complete.
Chris



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_e6tcgTmKNI

[Skyhaven]

Duality is not a mistake

tz2bSEhKDFE

[greybeard]

David R. Hawkins, M.D.,Ph.D.

New Release! Never before Available!

Peace is The Natural State



Dr. Hawkins opens this lecture by describing his intense drive to know the core of Truth and what it took to reach Enlightenment.
He speaks to us from subjective awareness that the reality of the Presence within is absolute silence.
If you can get beyond the illusion of causality, you can jump into the 500's, where you see that everything is happening as a consequence of the totality, of the Infinite Power of the Field, and that nothing is causing anything.

As the spirit evolves over the eons, it sets it karmic inheritance by its spiritual intention and decisions.
Dr. Hawkins emphasizes the importance of the energy of devotion when pursuing Truth; because it takes a fierce drive to transcend duality and into the field of non-duality.

Devotion means one's love takes the form of the love for the discernment of Truth above all else.

There is an explanation on how to get out of the polarity of the opposites, where you like "this" and hate "that" and the ensuing spiritual guilt from those judgments.
Our belief that there is a personal "I" that is the cause of everything and separate from the Infinite Oneness of Totality is the major block to realizing the Self.
In addition, he covers the unique qualities of power and force and how the greater the demand you put on power, the more it swells and meets the need. Dr. Hawkins also reveals why there really is no such thing as "now".
As we begin to transcend the ego, he says our definition of self begins to change: it's as though it dissolves into the sea.

Our future is creating the present; we are being pulled by destiny!
Everything is happening of its own; nothing is causing anything else…
It is critical to grasp that the illusion of linear causality as an explanation for the observed phenomena of life is the major and most profound limitation of thinkingness…
Mentation, reason, logic, and language are all structured dualistically, based on the axiom that there is a subject and an object, that there is a ‘this’ doing or causing a ‘that’.
– “I: Reality and Subjectivity” (2003), Chapter 13: “Mind”, p. 220



3 cd set for $32.00

This is an advert from Veritas publishing regarding the new cd set.

Chris

[ZooLife]

Duality is not a mistake


Duality, as a mistake, is reached by reason but then again, reason is mistaken.

Doesn't reason need duality to reason? Seems..........ah um.................Reasonable. ;)


Using reason to do away with duality would be like using ego as a tool to do away with ego. That wouldn't be reasonably successful.



http://www.favething.com/uploads/images/main-fave-images/main-b1d1e2329df25735e9a3f716e610938ea1a8599d.jpg

<3

[Chester]

i like this thread

[Innocent Warrior]

http://sweetdreamsart.s.w.pic.centerblog.net/Dancing-beneath-the-shadows.jpg
Image credit. (http://sweetdreamsart.centerblog.net/rub-charlotte-atkinson--2.html)

LgCWgfwlk0M

[greybeard]

i like this thread

We like it too
We also like you.

c

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/6E829D31-E326-4597-B9B3-5D4963076933_zps3dhtyzpn.jpg

[Wind]

You say you have heard stories about being swallowed
by the Master and so you became afraid of me.
But now you say it is different.
Your only wish is to disappear completely.
Therefore don't touch or combine yourself
with anything at all. Just be open.
Now, the real Master, the Satguru within,
is going to swallow you from inside.
This means your mind is being merged
in the universal Heart.
It is all unfolding by itself naturally.
And it is the most beautiful thing.
Don't listen to what the mind has to say now.
Stay only in the experience itself.
Don't imagine.
Without expectations,
your will feel the presence stirring within you.
No sense of specialness.
No arrogance.
No pride.
Such joy.
Such peace.
Just the natural Being.
Welcome Home.

~ Mooji

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/EC1F5326-7957-4459-B183-C85B0E652348_zpsa2xsx8v6.jpg

[betoobig]

Man, it was a long day before i came .... what a rest this place is. May you all keep shining like i see you do.
"Wellcome home" i love it.
Thanks and love
Juan

[greybeard]

Man, it was a long day before i came .... what a rest this place is. May you all keep shining like i see you do.
"Wellcome home" i love it.
Thanks and love
Juan

Juan the welcome mat is always out for you.
Mind you that's not needed, as this is your home as much as any ones.
Peace is the essence of this thread.
Every one is at ease with everyone else.
We come from different locations
We are of different cultures.
We are different ages--young to old--not that age means anything.
Ever companionship.
May it always be so.

With love
Chris

[Chester]

Man, it was a long day before i came .... what a rest this place is. May you all keep shining like i see you do.
"Wellcome home" i love it.
Thanks and love
Juan

Me gustas tu!

mzgjiPBCsss

[Skyhaven]

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f101/BeyondtheOsiris/4958E183-73B9-4015-87D7-2DFC782BEFF5_zpsvnfwlvp6.jpg

[IChingUChing]

Haven't been logged on for ages although I have been looking what's going on from time to time! Nice to see the new life in the thread:clapping:

At the beginning of November Paul Hedderman was in Norfolk, England giving talks for 3 days. I was lucky enough to be there and it was truely wonderful. Met great people and Paul is fantastic. Being there listening live was really powerful. Funny thing was, again and again my brain kept stopping and I couldn't take in the words he was saying - it was like I had a software breakdown :-). Fortunately or unfortunately the system has rebooted since then! Enjoy:

http://www.zenbitchslap.com/downloads/11-7-15-norfolk.mp3

http://www.zenbitchslap.com/downloads/11-7-15-norfolk-2.mp3

http://www.zenbitchslap.com/downloads/11-8-15-norfolk.mp3


These recordings along with all his other talks are available to hear on zenbitchslap.com (or on Itunes) for free.

[greybeard]

Glad you came back and shared this IChingUChing
Truly you were fortunate to be at that event.
If I had known he was in UK I would have bust a gut to get there--Oh well.
I will down load the talks
many thanks or the links

Much love
Chris

[IChingUChing]

So sorry Chris that I didn't manage to post it that he was coming :-(

I thought of it and wanted to but I saw it when travelling in Cambodia and didn't have my password with me.

On returning it was a super busy time for me and I almost didn't make it over myself. One hour's sleep and 12 hours of driving - the things we do chasing something we can't have !:ROFL:

I think next year he may well be coming back to Europe but probably Holland. Keep you posted if and when I get the info!

Much love!




Glad you came back and shared this IChingUChing
Truly you were fortunate to be at that event.
If I had known he was in UK I would have bust a gut to get there--Oh well.
I will down load the talks
many thanks or the links

Much love
Chris

[Wind]

What great fortune that in this life your heart beats for Truth.
It does not matter how much the mind tries to disturb you.
Ignore it. Just remind yourself, ‘This life is for freedom.’
No matter how many times mind attacks,
‘You are not good enough, not ready. You have not been chosen.’
Don’t succumb to the serpent voice. You must overcome it.
Say, ‘I am here for freedom and I am free.’
Not that you are choosing to be free, you cannot avoid being free.
God cannot deny the request of the heart.

~ Mooji

[ZooLife]

Reason is a cover-up to enlightenment.

Reason will say that when fully developed it IS enlightenment. It couldn't be further from the truth.

Does that seem unreasonable?

http://thehealthcoach1.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/cropped-lotuslilliesCOMP2.jpg

https://scontent.cdninstagram.com/hphotos-xfa1/t51.2885-15/s320x320/e15/11313752_922468747805347_1010671815_n.jpg

[Chester]

I am still stark raving enlightened... the problem is, I miss trouble.

I "think" I am just a "bother" as in both... meaning despite knowing my story is just my story and illusion, I still enjoy it and push aside the actual "who" I gno I am.

oh well... at least if I stay in this thread and not stick my toes in a few others where I could blow some things up, everyone is safe.

KnmSk2LeFOc

[ZooLife]

KnmSk2LeFOc

>>>>because no matter the command of language, symbols, art etc. A direct demonstration of_______ is impossible.

The greatest art wouldn't exist if there wasn't an attempt and so the beat goes on.

Words

Picture

Sounds

Feelings

Smells.....

It's all art. It's a consuming of consumption.

It's a bonus of being.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8_tsgNrx1iw/URx49NuhcAI/AAAAAAAAARI/stelvbKx2l0/s1600/JussiLehtiniemi-Kimberley_Fairy_Hum.jpg

[IChingUChing]

It was a lot of fun to listen to the BATGAP interview with Robert Thurman - enjoy!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Y_O7-PF650


316. Robert Thurman
Posted on December 1, 2015 by Rick Archer

Robert ThurmanRobert A.F. Thurman is the Jey Tsong Khapa Professor of Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Studies in the Department of Religion at Columbia University, President of the Tibet House U.S., a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Tibetan civilization, and President of the American Institute of Buddhist Studies, a non-profit affiliated with the Center for Buddhist Studies at Columbia University and dedicated to the publication of translations of important artistic and scientific treatises from the Tibetan Tengyur.

Time chose Professor Thurman as one of its 25 most influential Americans in 1997, describing him as a “larger than life scholar-activist destined to convey the Dharma, the precious teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha, from Asia to America.” The New York Times recently said Thurman “is considered the leading American expert on Tibetan Buddhism.”

Thurman is known as a talented popularizer of the Buddha’s teachings. He is a riveting speaker and an author of many books on Tibet, Buddhism, art, politics and culture, including:

The Central Philosophy of Tibet
Circling the Sacred Mountain : A Spiritual Adventure Through the Himalayas
Essential Tibetan Buddhism
The Tibetan Book of the Dead: Liberation Through Understanding in the Between
Wisdom and Compassion The Sacred Art of Tibet
Inner Revolution
Infinite Life: Awakening to Bliss Within
The Jewel Tree of Tibet: The Enlightenment Engine of Tibetan Buddhism
Why the Dalai Lama Matters: His Act of Truth as the Solution for China, Tibet, and the World
And, most recently, with Sharon Salzberg, Love Your Enemies: How to Break the Anger Habit & Be a Whole Lot Happier

Website: bobthurman.com

Recorded 10/25/2015 at the Science and Nonduality Conference.