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

[Clear Light]

Non Duality - Traditions (loaded 03 May 2016)
» Stephen Fulder - 'Awakening Arrives By Itself' - Interview by Iain McNay

[...]

Formed the Israel Insight Society; distanced himself from Buddhism but fully embraced the teachings of the Buddha and still teaches around 15 retreats a year. Also works in the area of Palestinian/Israeli reconciliation. 'There is no way to peace, Peace is the way.' Can describe his lived experience with great precision and clarity; took part on a study which explored 3 stages:

[...]



Hmmm, exactly how does one do that, the highlighted text I mean ?

No disrespect to anybody but that seems like a bit of an Oxymoron no ?

[GarethBKK]

Non Duality - Traditions (loaded 03 May 2016)
» Stephen Fulder - 'Awakening Arrives By Itself' - Interview by Iain McNay

[...]

Formed the Israel Insight Society; distanced himself from Buddhism but fully embraced the teachings of the Buddha and still teaches around 15 retreats a year. Also works in the area of Palestinian/Israeli reconciliation. 'There is no way to peace, Peace is the way.' Can describe his lived experience with great precision and clarity; took part on a study which explored 3 stages:

[...]



Hmmm, exactly how does one do that, the highlighted text I mean ?

No disrespect to anybody but that seems like a bit of an Oxymoron no ?


No, since you ask :-) In the Buddha's own stories he said that spiritual teachers, or religions if you like, are boatmen to take you across to the other shore. Which boat you get on doesn't matter. Once you have reached the other shore, what need of the boatman?

It's similar to the well-known Zen saying: 'Fingers pointing at the moon'. At some stage, through experience, we can stop looking at the fingers pointing to the moon and look at the moon itself.

All learning points to experience. As experience develops the learning loses significance.

I live in a largely Buddhist country, and it's clear to see that most of its followers are purely devotional in their practice. Thus, Buddhism is seen as a religion with the end of suffering lying outside of self. Those that have been on the inward exploration to experience and remembered who they really are, have no interest in devotional religion.

[joeecho]

Those that have been on the inward exploration to experience and remembered who they really are, have no interest in devotional religion.

All is or can be devotional until one discovers where it leads or should I say, doesn't lead to.

Devotional ways do like to sneak their way back in even after discovery. Ego is relentless that way. ;)

[greybeard]

Ego health warning.

No ego in its right mind will watch this video


There is only Awareness - A guided Meditation with Mooji.
.

SUNDAY MEDITATION guided by Mooji




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9W1NxOIvMDk

[Clear Light]

Non Duality - Traditions (loaded 03 May 2016)
» Stephen Fulder - 'Awakening Arrives By Itself' - Interview by Iain McNay

[...]

Formed the Israel Insight Society; distanced himself from Buddhism but fully embraced the teachings of the Buddha and still teaches around 15 retreats a year. Also works in the area of Palestinian/Israeli reconciliation. 'There is no way to peace, Peace is the way.' Can describe his lived experience with great precision and clarity; took part on a study which explored 3 stages:

[...]



Hmmm, exactly how does one do that, the highlighted text I mean ?

No disrespect to anybody but that seems like a bit of an Oxymoron no ?


No, since you ask :-) In the Buddha's own stories he said that spiritual teachers, or religions if you like, are boatmen to take you across to the other shore. Which boat you get on doesn't matter. Once you have reached the other shore, what need of the boatman?

It's similar to the well-known Zen saying: 'Fingers pointing at the moon'. At some stage, through experience, we can stop looking at the fingers pointing to the moon and look at the moon itself.

All learning points to experience. As experience develops the learning loses significance.

I live in a largely Buddhist country, and it's clear to see that most of its followers are purely devotional in their practice. Thus, Buddhism is seen as a religion with the end of suffering lying outside of self. Those that have been on the inward exploration to experience and remembered who they really are, have no interest in devotional religion.

Thanks for that GarethBKK :highfive:

Yeah, like, no so-called 'Ego' really wants to Contemplate its own Cessation eh ?

[greybeard]

The Challenge is that there are various levels of understanding or should I say miss understanding.

I could say truthfully Only "God" is, that's a real conversation stopper.

I think it is important to meet people where they stand.

Time being I appear to be in duality therefore it is helpful for the me to have teachings that get me through my day in good form--lol

Everyone who contributes on this thread has a good understanding of ultimate reality---some guests may or may not.
We are all where we are meant to be.
The totality brings everything about.

With love
Chris

[Enola]

"The moment you decide to walk the path of light, what seem to be very unfavourable situations begin to work in your favour. In fact, the forces you trigger by committing to this path gradually intervene to modify situations, and what should have harmed you comes little by little to place itself at your service."

Omraam Mikhaël Aïvanhov

[Clear Light]

"The moment you decide to walk the path of light, what seem to be very unfavourable situations begin to work in your favour. In fact, the forces you trigger by committing to this path gradually intervene to modify situations, and what should have harmed you comes little by little to place itself at your service."

Omraam Mikhaël Aïvanhov

Oh, or perhaps, what seems to 'suffer' (have been 'harmed' somehow) is I believe nothing other than our mistaken identification with a conceptual 'self' where non truly 'exists' as such ... he says playfully ;)

[Clear Light]

"Health is the greatest possession.
Contentment is the greatest treasure.
Confidence is the greatest friend.
Non-being is the greatest joy"

Dhammapada

^^^ How I'm 'feeling' today :) (subject to change of course lol)

[ZooLife]

Me and my father are One




In the sentence "Me and my father are" can be dispense with and is essentially for illustration purposes only.

ONE, there is no other. Of course the same applies to "there is no other" (Re: dispensed with and illustration purposes only)

ONE

Even the word 'ONE' can be dispense with and is essentially for illustration purposes only but then what would I do with this keyboard and my typing fingers? :bigsmile:


http://partnersrouttcounty.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Blank-space.jpg

(Blank space - illustration purposes only)

What do you think of my illustration or lack there of?

[ZooLife]

One

There is no one.

If there is no one then who am I?

Amnesia, have 'you' forgotten already?

[ZooLife]

One forgets

One appears

One remembers

One appears

Remember asks forget for a dance and the instance they touch they knew why.

http://www.zafchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Screen-Shot-2014-01-26-at-7.28.01-PM-507x227.png

(.... {I} love {you} STILL)

[Guish]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xtp1/v/t1.0-9/13139224_862175950558114_8913701193978872439_n.jpg?oh=ea6b34232b267f51e3c1ad00855e5e6f&oe=57AD4274&__gda__=1471293250_e6b989d8705673ac2baccc3f09725c2c

[Clear Light]

"Raise your words, not voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder" Rumi

>>> Spirit Science <<<


Ah, IMHO, by the power of collective "Conceptual Designation" we conceive of (make-up) things such as "Electrons, Atoms, Quarks, Vibration, Quantum-ness" etc in an attempt to "Explain" how things seem to work right ?

Yet before such "designation" there are no "independent" things, no separation, just wholeness / oneness, like a universal Gestalt if you will :)

And as for "Awareness" that's who / what we are, nonetheless these words are themselves empty "concepts" so please don't take my word for it eh ? LOL ;)

Now, how can this be intuited ? Upon the cessation of conceptuality what remains ? That's where I would point to ..

With Love and Appreciation !

[betoobig]

[QUOTE=betoobig;1065353]
Me and my father are One

Yes... But, never give up your individuality meaning "the individual path that universe enjoys itself" so Oneness is great and individuality too!
Do not give up yourself but dive yourself in Oneness !
Love you

¤=[Post Update]=¤

I was quoting zoolife

[Wind]

"Many have felt during meditation or even outside of it the dreamlike character of the world. As dreams are only thoughts, this means that they have felt the truth of mentalism. However, the world is only like but not actually a dream. When one meditates on the reason still more subtly he finds that it is really the substance of God reflected forth, the self-externalization of Cosmic Mind. It is there divine in essence. Its form is changing and an appearance but its ultimate stuff is, in reality, God. Life here on earth is divine in this sense. Once this is grasped, he finds a fresh basis for conduct, a deeper inspiration for activity. He cannot be a mere dreamer, cave dweller, or drifter. He must act. But actions will now be inspired by and performed for that deeper self within, and will therefore be impersonal and altruistic."

~ Paul Brunton

https://scontent-ams3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-0/p180x540/13082723_789017354568165_2476141371069492619_n.jpg?oh=f1011b5f75485e00ca6ff28dbebadefb&oe=579ADCD9

[ZooLife]

Yes... But, never give up your individuality meaning "the individual path that universe enjoys itself" so Oneness is great and individuality too!
Do not give up yourself but dive yourself in Oneness !
Love you

I thought, oh-she-an ocean, to dive or not to dive, that is the question. Being HERE answers that question.

https://49.media.tumblr.com/ea4515b431fed27071379ed1d5408635/tumblr_o5eu5ftbTQ1u8szh4o1_500.gif

[joeecho]

Thought made of thought
Damn, I thought I thought of that
I made of I
I'd like to know who started this

It's just eating me up

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N_LMbFtaGkQ/VTdAngJCYsI/AAAAAAAACu0/oL3fbOzVrT4/s1600/tumblr_n2obkbbHZN1rj9sw5o1_500.gif

Oh, wait.....

Stop that!

I will stop when you stop.

Hmmmmmmm

Maybe I do not want to stop just yet.

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/47/8d/05/478d051d7d5cc6f15b43f4691f573c39.jpg

[Wind]

Unless you are dead you can't do God's job.
You want to help this world?
First thing is to get rid of yourself, then perhaps you can help.
After that, you realise that God's Self and your Self is the same.
When you get rid of your bad self, which sees the bad world,
then you see from your good-God Self
and you see there is no bad world apart from your ‘bad mind’.

~ Mooji

[Valley]

I recently have been practicing throwing and then catching two frisbees at once, one with each hand... with a friend. We have gotten good enough to where we now can stand about 75 to 100 feet apart and still make the throws & catches, sometimes several in a row. But what we've learned is that we need to basically drop all thoughts and speaking words, so that we are able to do this successfully. There is such a rush of energy and a feeling/sensation of 'floating on a cloud' after we get 'dialed in'.

A lot of people talk about 'being in the zone' of heightened ability/awareness in different sports disciplines... So we came up with the term 'double-zone frisbee' to describe this activity/discipline.

The idea for this practice just 'popped into my mind' one day when we had a few frisbees, and at first we couldn't even complete a distance of 20 feet... But we stuck with it and now it's like an other-worldly experience when we go out there.

I think this is about the same kinda thing Mooji refers to in that last quote is why I mention it.
🌻🌷🌷🌻

[greybeard]

This is pasted from an advert for DVDs at http://www.veritaspub.com/


Intention

In this fascinating lecture, Dr. Hawkins demonstrates how important our intention really is. He explains with humor how our spiritual will determines our calibratable level of consciousness and that our individual will is actually too weak to make much progress. When we align with Divinity and ask to be a servant of God, it is enormously powerful. He gives us a wonderful prayer to invoke this divine will.

Dr. Hawkins tells us that dualities hold each level of consciousness in place and how letting go of the attractions and aversions of each level will instantly move you to another level. In addition, there are examples of contemplations that you can do that set your intention with a principle, in devotion to the Truth, which activate the field and can lead to experiencing the miraculous.

Existence is continuously miraculous. “If you don’t project thinkingness onto the world and become ‘dumb like a bunny’, then you just see phenomena are happening of their own.” You can surrender the illusion that you are the cause of anything.

“By intention your life becomes that intention, you become it, you are the prayer. Instead of praying from a ‘me’ to a ‘that’, you become that, you are it!...All of life is worshipful and aware of the presence of Divinity, very conscious of it….The universe is conscious and aware…The tree does actually know what you are”-Dr. Hawkins

[Zampano]

I recently have been practicing throwing and then catching two frisbees at once, one with each hand... with a friend. We have gotten good enough to where we now can stand about 75 to 100 feet apart and still make the throws & catches, sometimes several in a row. But what we've learned is that we need to basically drop all thoughts and speaking words, so that we are able to do this successfully. There is such a rush of energy and a feeling/sensation of 'floating on a cloud' after we get 'dialed in'.

A lot of people talk about 'being in the zone' of heightened ability/awareness in different sports disciplines... So we came up with the term 'double-zone frisbee' to describe this activity/discipline.

Interesting...
Like 10 years ago or so, I was invited to a friend for Easter party and it was, lets say, a fun night.
While the rest of my friends were hungover and just laying arround, I wanted to do something.

There was a dart laying on the floor and threw it at a tree-hitting the trunk of a tree from 3 metres.
I would pick the dart up again, stepped a metre away and threw it again. Nearly the same spot...did it again and again.
Until I was like 20 metres (75 feet) away and always hit the same spot :-) Nobody was watching.
I was sooo into it-the rest of the world disapeared and this became my only "reality".

When they eventually got up, they were in awe of my "ability".

Same happened to me when I was running...the "runners high".
First times were really hard and I did run for 30 minutes and I was like quitting. Thoughts in my head...I am so tired, I cant do it, I want to rest.
And suddenly, there was no thought and running became automatic. I was running for 2 hours like a machine and after it, I felt wayyy better then before.

Also with archery it happened to me, now we are talking about it.
I never gave it much of a significance

Fascinating...thanks Valley for posting. I already forgot these experiences

[Valley]

You're welcome Zampano🙏 And thanks for sharing your very interesting experiences too👍🙌 It appears that we can 'slip into' higher states of consciousness by getting very 'attuned' with, or 'becoming one' with physical activities... like they can serve as a kind of a doorway or 'trigger', when very deep into the exploration of a repeated practice... Similar to how mantras/chanting are talked as being able to do.

👏Thanks again for sharing your very similar experiences.👏

PS... One thing I didn't talk about was how tricky/challenging it is to catch both frisbees when you never know where each one will end up.

[Wind]

You are One.
You are the singular being.
And, therefore, you cannot see you.
What you can see are only the projections that appear in your mind
—and some of those projections you take to be yourself.
While growing up we try out being all sorts of things,
so many different versions of ourselves
and all of these garments of identity have left
because none of them was you.
But you cannot leave you, even if you think you can and have.
You can leave the idea you have of you,
but your Self, you can never NOT be.
You may dream you are something or someone else,
you can momentarily appear to be something you are not,
but you cannot un-Be what you are.
And you are the one watching all of these dreams and appearances.
The amount of interest or no-interest will determine
the impact your seeing will have on you, if any impact at all.
And if your seeing has a tremendous impact on you,
that ‘you’ is still not the ultimate Truth—not your essential Being.
Contemplate this. Reflect upon this until you meet your heart’s joy.

~ Mooji

[betoobig]

I am in the point where i am, meaning let the one drive me but without loosing my uniqueness! Wonderfull!
Does this make any sense to you?
Much love

[Clear Light]

I am in the point where i am, meaning let the one drive me but without loosing my uniqueness! Wonderfull!
Does this make any sense to you?
Much love

Now that I can relate to very much Juan ;)

Like an 'inner' Gnosis of one's true Nature perhaps [1] ?

Much impartial all inclusive 'Love' indeed !

Thanks for Sharing,
From this one with the name of 'Simon' :heart:

. : . : . : . : . : . : . : . : . : . : . : . : . : . : . : . :

[1] Oh, which has the Potential to "bleed through" into our everyday 'life' I suggest ...

[betoobig]

I am in the point where i am, meaning let the one drive me but without loosing my uniqueness! Wonderfull!
Does this make any sense to you?
Much love

Now that I can relate to very much Juan ;)

Like an 'inner' Gnosis of one's true Nature perhaps [1] ?

Much impartial all inclusive 'Love' indeed !

Thanks for Sharing,
From this one with the name of 'Simon' :heart:

. : . : . : . : . : . : . : . : . : . : . : . : . : . : . : . :

[1] Oh, which has the Potential to "bleed through" into our everyday 'life' I suggest ...

Yes, in fact it has a lot in common with what Valley shared with us. It is he and his friend working as one still doing each other his part. Belonging in Oneness while playing your part.
Thanks Avalonian with the beutifull name Clear Blue Sky.
Much love

[joeecho]

I imagined I

(Flip it around)

I imagined I

http://media.danoah.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/14060138/here-and-now-symbol.png

(Which one are you?)

[joeecho]

That which was (is) there in the beginning is taken for granted. It's so obvious (and yet it's not).

Where would we be without it? Not (of course).


.................................................................................................... ............



'I' am nothing, nowhere, timeless........

....dressed in everything, for everywhere, at all times.

https://geethaprodhom.files.wordpress.com/2016/01/timeless-feralintelligence-com.jpg?w=700

[greybeard]

Enthusiasm is a double edged sword.
There was always that for what I got interested in.
Doubly so for the spiritual.
Fortunately people put up with my outpouring in the early days.
I was amazed they did not get "it" though--- as it was so clear to me--at least the little of what I did understand.

This thread is the only place I enter into the subject now apart from several that I e mail.

If I was asked now about spirituality--I would point out the obvious and understandable.
There is an awareness, a witnessing by Self, of what we seem to do.

This part of "us" is not affected by events but the ego/persona is.

Thoughts come uninvited--we don't have to claim them as my thoughts, make them feel at home, far less feed them.
The more that you interact with them--buy into them, the louder they get and more often they visit.

I am grateful for the interaction on this thread.

Much love

Chris

[joeecho]

"Truth be told...."

These three words (or a facsimile) should always perk up the skeptic in all of us.

Truth is not told
Truth is not experienced

Truth experiences
But that is not the Truth.

I am the Great Liar, do you think that is True?
If you think that is True, then I am the Great Liar.

[Clear Light]

"Truth be told...."

These three words (or a facsimile) should always perk up the skeptic in all of us.

Truth is not told
Truth is not experienced

Truth experiences
But that is not the Truth.

I am the Great Liar, do you think that is True?
If you think that is True, then I am the Great Liar.

Huh ? LOL :bigsmile:

What "you" getting at Joeecho ... "I" am curious kindof ;)

"We" can think whatever we like (it seems) but do thoughts in any way detract from what is already the case (like "Truth") ...

[Wind]

"That element in his consciousness which enables him to understand that he exists, which causes him to pronounce the words, "I Am," is the spiritual element, here called Overself. It is really his basic self for the three activities of thinking feeling and willing are derived from it, are ripples spreading out of it, are attributes and functions which belong to it. But as we ordinarily think feel and act, these activities do not express the Overself because they are under the control of a different entity, the personal ego."

~ Paul Brunton

https://scontent-amt2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13174000_791308904339010_2811629606903723951_n.png?oh=43f43678b4dd96328e8a6f107218772c&oe=57DFE95F

[joeecho]

I thought, thought I
Or so I thought.

[Enola]

http://www.stevenmtaylor.com/essays/life-energy-spiritual-experience/

[greybeard]

http://www.stevenmtaylor.com/essays/life-energy-spiritual-experience/

There is a lot, of interest to this thread, on that site Enola
Many thanks

Love C

[greybeard]

Stephen Fulder Awakening arrives by itself.


Conscious TV interview

‘The spacious groundless sense of being needs to become part of our nature, to be familiar territory and then awakening arrives by itself.
The ultimate cannot belong to anyone nor can there be someone who is awakened.’

Stephen talks us through his spiritual journey and realisations. From realising that there was no fixed reality when he was a child to having his earlier insights confirmed when he took LSD in his 20s. He was drawn to India and the ‘Mother Ganges’ where he discovered the teachings of S.N. Goenka. Spent time on many retreats with Sayama and other Buddhist teachers such as Stephen Batchelor and Christopher Titmuss.

Formed the Israel Insight Society; distanced himself from Buddhism but fully embraced the teachings of the Buddha and still teaches around 15 retreats a year. Also works in the area of Palestinian/Israeli reconciliation….’There is no way to peace, Peace is the way.’

Can describe his lived experience with great precision and clarity; took part on a study which explored 3 stages:
Stage 1 – ordinary sense of self and boundary
Stage 2 - sense of dropping boundary to some extent
Stage 3 - dissolution
In this interview he explains these stages in detail.




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwW32qmgjHo

[Enola]

http://www.stevenmtaylor.com/essays/life-energy-spiritual-experience/

There is a lot, of interest to this thread, on that site Enola
Many thanks

Love C



Yes. Working with the life-force, trying to remove blockages to it and make it move around, is my main focus.

[greybeard]

http://www.stevenmtaylor.com/essays/life-energy-spiritual-experience/

There is a lot, of interest to this thread, on that site Enola
Many thanks

Love C



Yes. Working with the life-force, trying to remove blockages to it and make it move around, is my main focus.

Thats a worthwhile endeavour Enola.

I was trained to do this using Bio-Energy and Bi Aura techniques---the results were excellent.
There is nothing but energy in movement--or blocked as the case might be.
Clear the blockages and healing will naturally happen on all levels.
Chi Gong is very helpful too.
With practise you can feel energy of others with your hands without touching them--then remove the blockages.

Love Chris

[Wind]

This language I am speaking, your heart alone knows. Your mind does not know it.
This language I am speaking is not English or French or anything else.
Your heart alone knows what I am speaking. It understands without study.
Mind is the realm of time, effort and concepts – the most limited field.
I Am. Without effort, I Am – boundless, limitless, free.

~ Mooji

[ZooLife]

Everything is oblique to you and you are oblique to everything.

That which does not speak of this is the true light.

Do you realize the implication (of this)?

I do and I don't.

[betoobig]

Everything is oblique to you and you are oblique to everything.

That which does not speak of this is the true light.

Do you realize the implication (of this)?

I do and I don't.

To me the implication is that we never ever are on our own, allways beloved and supported... Eyes to see and ears to hear!
You are never ever on your own, al-one
I9RigJvARZE
Much love

[Wind]

"Whoever has been led into the cave of timeless life will poise his pen in a futile attempt to find words which will accurately measure this sublime experience. He rises renewed from the exquisite embrace of such a contemplation. He learns in those shining hours. That which he has been seeking so ardently has been within himself all the time. For there at the core of his being, hidden away underneath all the weakness, passion, pettiness, fear, and ignorance, dwells light, love, peace, and truth. The windows of his heart open on eternity, only he has kept them closed! He is as near the sacred spirit of God as he ever shall be, but he must open his eyes to see it. Man's divine estate is there deep within himself. But he must claim it."

~ Paul Brunton

https://scontent-ams3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-0/s600x600/13227190_797044607098773_5871169218015703874_n.jpg?oh=0667106edc91df801c01f81c1d938d91&oe=57DCC001

[Guish]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/13245394_869143553194687_3485730293833921106_n.jpg?oh=20520c7333adcfc26e903c0408c0d3aa&oe=57CFA64F&__gda__=1473188343_4330a25d545336c736db6a9ca8e8af67

[ZooLife]

Remembering the unforgotten:

All that has ever been known or will ever be known is.....

......not that which Is.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8566/16229154394_d0cd2efd73_z.jpg

[ZooLife]

When I speak of my reality, that isn't it.

When others speak of it, it is doubly so.

-- Zoo


https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/8b/b6/79/8bb679454fe87975d41deb890012151f.jpg

[greybeard]

Consciousness - Transformations
» Andrew Rawlinson - 'THE HIT' - Interview by Iain McNay

http://conscious.tv/consciousness.html?bcpid=2439355001&bclid=18673093001&bctid=4899656839001

Andrew Rawlinson - 'THE HIT' - Interview by Iain McNay Author of 'The Hit - Into The Rock'N'Roll Universe And Beyond' and 'The Book Of Enlightened Masters - Western Teachers in Eastern Traditions.' .

Andrew Talks about his life and how he was aware that he was continually 'hit' by realisations, small and large, that enabled him to see through his conditioning.
'The HIT is both a grace and a disturbance. All worlds are a show.. Reality is open It is constantly transforming itself It goes beyond itself It is where illusion begins.
All derangements are connected. Like sub atomic particles they just keep reflecting each other jumping between each other and turning into each other. Just like a magic trick where certainty and deception change places.

It's a jungle, as soon as you find a path you loose it.
Everybody is looking for who they are ------- but they are nobody
Not only is the world stranger than you imagine - it is stranger than you can imagine. And we are all collaborators in creation. And what is it to collaborate? To know that we are the mirror as well as the face in it, pain and what cures pain.
This is the expanse of spirit: rich and dark. Yes, it's the Gods who are rocking us, who are looking for someone to receive them.
There is really no reality without identity, and identity is a show.'

[ZooLife]

We all have eaten from this tree though the eating and the tree arise together, it is but through time that they appear as separate events.

Moreover, the tree, in relationship to that which is, is nonexistent.....but what isn't?

This is the repetitive journey seemingly taken over countless lifetimes....ad infinitum.

Déjà vu anyone?

http://www.agodman.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/gen-2-17-do-not-eat-of-the-tree-of-knowledge-of-good-and-evil.jpg

http://seekyefirst.info/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/tree-of-knowledge-.jpg

http://www.jarofquotes.com/img/quotes/b358134152475c8ad19a72c054dc7506.jpg

[pabranno]

Greybeard, I thanou.
Please keep this beautiful thread focused and fruitful.
Many beautiful thoughts on this thread. I thtank you all.

Greybeard, forgive me.. I have not gone through the whole thread.

Can you share basics of recognizing my ego?

Pamela

[greybeard]

Greybeard, I thanou.
Please keep this beautiful thread focused and fruitful.
Many beautiful thoughts on this thread. I thtank you all.

Greybeard, forgive me.. I have not gone through the whole thread.

Can you share basics of recognizing my ego?

Pamela


Hi Pamela
welcome to the thread.
The answer to you question is actually fairly simple.

The ego is a separation device which maintains the illusion that you are not one with creator.
It functions through identification with the story of me.
It strengthens its fake identity through claiming uniqueness--being special--in my misery or greatness.
Only the ego ---which is persona, can be hurt.

So you recognise it by becoming the witness of everything .
You can see how you react to situations--what pushes your buttons.

At first you might not be instantly aware of this---in hind sight you can see it though.
Eventually you can view your self without getting hauled into being defensive or reactive.

To be clear things will happen but you can enjoy the moment fully without self identification.
Thoughts come but you don't have to act on them.

Love Chris

[Clear Light]

Greybeard, I thanou.
Please keep this beautiful thread focused and fruitful.
Many beautiful thoughts on this thread. I thtank you all.

Greybeard, forgive me.. I have not gone through the whole thread.

Can you share basics of recognizing my ego?

Pamela

Hi Pamela, or on the other hand you could 'practice' (probably via meditation) resting in mind's essence which I reckon is a more fruitful endeavour as that is like your change-less nature come what may.

Otherwise it could be like a dog chasing its tail with the Ego-self believing it has transcended itself ! :wink:

Just some thoughts ...

[pabranno]

Excellent explanation, Greybeard. I will begin to practice those simple techniques. It is important to me, because I am becoming increasingly aware of how self centered I am. Thank you again for advising me, and al
Clear Blue Skies, from PA I have gleaned how important meditation is to growing. However, and this is also addressed here on PA, there can be dangers during meditation from "archontic" influences on those more susceptible. I am susceptible, and wary. I feel caught between a rock and a hard place when it comes to meditating. I'm still too scared to open up like that. I just don't feel grounded spiritually enough. But evidently it is hugely important. Perhaps starting with techniques to recognize and corral my self centered ego will help me mature enough spiritually to begin meditating in earnest.
I really do thank you for addressing my questions, Clear Blue Skies and Greybeard.
Don't mean to go off topic....:bigsmile:

[Guish]

Greybeard, I thanou.
Please keep this beautiful thread focused and fruitful.
Many beautiful thoughts on this thread. I thtank you all.

Greybeard, forgive me.. I have not gone through the whole thread.

Can you share basics of recognizing my ego?

Pamela

Hi Pamela, or on the other hand you could 'practice' (probably via meditation) resting in mind's essence which I reckon is a more fruitful endeavour as that is like your change-less nature come what may.

Otherwise it could be like a dog chasing its tail with the Ego-self believing it has transcended itself ! :wink:

Just some thoughts ...

Wise idea. Direct experience is important.

[Guish]

Excellent explanation, Greybeard. I will begin to practice those simple techniques. It is important to me, because I am becoming increasingly aware of how self centered I am. Thank you again for advising me, and al
Clear Blue Skies, from PA I have gleaned how important meditation is to growing. However, and this is also addressed here on PA, there can be dangers during meditation from "archontic" influences on those more susceptible. I am susceptible, and wary. I feel caught between a rock and a hard place when it comes to meditating. I'm still too scared to open up like that. I just don't feel grounded spiritually enough. But evidently it is hugely important. Perhaps starting with techniques to recognize and corral my self centered ego will help me mature enough spiritually to begin meditating in earnest.
I really do thank you for addressing my questions, Clear Blue Skies and Greybeard.
Don't mean to go off topic....:bigsmile:

Start with a 5 minutes meditation session. It'll help to clear conflicting thoughts. Meditation can be tricky at deeper levels but you are not there yet.

[greybeard]

Excellent explanation, Greybeard. I will begin to practice those simple techniques. It is important to me, because I am becoming increasingly aware of how self centered I am. Thank you again for advising me, and al
Clear Blue Skies, from PA I have gleaned how important meditation is to growing. However, and this is also addressed here on PA, there can be dangers during meditation from "archontic" influences on those more susceptible. I am susceptible, and wary. I feel caught between a rock and a hard place when it comes to meditating. I'm still too scared to open up like that. I just don't feel grounded spiritually enough. But evidently it is hugely important. Perhaps starting with techniques to recognize and corral my self centered ego will help me mature enough spiritually to begin meditating in earnest.
I really do thank you for addressing my questions, Clear Blue Skies and Greybeard.
Don't mean to go off topic....:bigsmile:

You are not off topic Pamela--we all benefit from posts such as your sharing.

The ego promotes fear.

If you have a challenge just now with formal meditating develop awareness of the present moment.
Without forcing it, try to keep the focus on now rather than past or future.

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle is a great book--I would suggest reading that.

Love C

[Chester]

p p p POW!

zqrpKUTMXgY

[Catsquotl]

The ego promotes fear.
Love C

ehm. It can, but it doesn't necessarily have to.
The ego can give rise to all sorts of experiences.. As it is a memory of past experiences itself.
Convincing itself that it actually is a thing that experiences this stuff. Usually lardered with all kinds of expectations and what nots.

Isn't meditating just bare awareness of what is without the expectations?
Consciousness of breathing if you are breathing.
Consciousness of thinking when your mind is spinning to make sense of it all?
Consciousness of sound if you hear a car driving by when meditating?

No ego there....

With Love
Eelco

[Wind]

KVgpbqHV6hA

[greybeard]

The number 0 is the same as nothing--fully explained in the video.
An interesting concept-----as you cant make silence--it is the absence of sound which comes and goes--silence is unchanging, always the same.

Enjoy the video

Love Chris




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

[transiten]

Nothing = "No thing" could mean pure energy before material manifestation...

[greybeard]

Nothing = "No thing" could mean pure energy before material manifestation...

Yes thats true.

Good to see you here transiten.

Love Chris

[transiten]

Thanks greybeard, been through hell and back, constantly working with my scorpio "horrorscope" :wink:

Love back to you

[greybeard]

Thanks greybeard, been through hell and back, constantly working with my scorpio "horrorscope" :wink:

Love back to you

Glad you survived.
Dont think it is all that easy for Scorpios--but life sure is not boring.

Love C

[Wind]

True Knowledge of the Truth is not a knowledge to keep.
Contrary to the mind’s understanding of knowledge,
which is something to keep, to save and cherish,
true knowledge removes ‘you’
and leaves an empty space.
And when there is no ‘you’, there is only Truth.
There is only the Supreme
Appearing in the form of a human being.
Even now, we are the Supreme,
But the game is to know this consciously
without arrogance, pride and identity.
And this knowing is being.
They are one.

~ Mooji

[ZooLife]

If we were the only two (things) in existence we would define each other. In defining each other we are one.

One has no-one to define it.

Defining one is the birth place of eternity.

[Wind]

"If the sleeping state is completely deep, this return to the source leaves an afterglow. The newly awakened man is loath to get up, not only for obvious physiological reasons, but also because of this one. It vanishes quickly, this delightful feeling, because the ego takes over with its tendencies and memories and, above all, its outward-turned world-seeking nature. The informed person will not miss the chance to surrender to that glow and bask in its serenity, letting the ego wait. "I dozed, and my book fell from my weary hand. When I woke up, I was full of joy and smiled silently," wrote Ts'ai Ch'o, a Chinese poet of Ts'ai, the Taoist mystical-philosophic school."

~ Paul Brunton

https://scontent-ams3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13266041_801039890032578_2884505050089762280_n.jpg?oh=629c513082160cb7f4962c44a8f12011&oe=57DEF708

[greybeard]

Maya is not an eternal spell - Mooji and life is the greatest software program

"Everything seems momentary." (Mooji) http://www.mooji.org


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kra4fGJyfm4


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

[Enola]

This is a good essay about spiritual alchemy, for the more serious students.

http://www.awakeninthedream.com/the-light-of-darkness/

[greybeard]

Can a Devotee Move from One Master to Another?

"First of all, we have to know that the Master is One.

Many Masters are just many faces of One. Nevertheless, in spite of saying that, they will vary tremendously in expression. But, they are the same in essence. Each according to what is the flock they must engage with. The collective consciousness of those disciples somehow are pulled together because something here has to be worked though. And, if it is worked through, you might find that, at a certain point, spontaneously, unexpectedly even, there is a sense to move on, like something has dried up now. This will happen completely naturally, you are not deciding this.

One day, hopefully today, you will know that all things and their appearances are only That.

Then fear will go, sadness will go, suffering will go.

It has already started in fact, this awakening. It brought you here.

Trust it."



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

[greybeard]

"Think" we may have taken advice to heart.
This part of the spiritual section is virtually still and comparatively quiet.
C

[Zampano]

This part of the spiritual section is virtually still and comparatively quiet.

Isnt that great?

[Enola]

http://www.pindariherbfarm.com/healing/emotions.htm

[Wind]

https://scontent-arn2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/p720x720/13096097_10154031860501217_5217012081275323131_n.jpg?oh=50b8299474b1668c9045fae131c4ed6c&oe=57D92B78

[Enola]

AEIOU



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HlGO9IRJeqg

[ZooLife]

Ultimately it doesn't matter if one gets it......get it?

(But getting that can be helpful) ;)

http://i.imgur.com/jGE8ik2.gif

[greybeard]

Thomas Razzeto - Buddha at the Gas Pump Interview

A fresh approach to non-duality well worth listening to.

Thomas Razzeto is one of the newest and freshest voices among the teachers of our balanced, ancient nondual wisdom. Thomas easily digs deeply into the core of this wisdom to reveal both its essential truth and the heart-felt compassion that all true sages embody when they are genuinely engaged in the world without being entangled by it.

The first time Thomas heard this nondual wisdom was in 2005 when he attended one of Timothy Conway’s satsang and Thomas has continually attended these weekly meetings since they provide the foundation for all his work. (By the way, Timothy Conway was guest number 28 at Buddha at the Gas Pump way back in July of 2010.) Timothy woke up when he was only 16 and he later was fortunate enough to meet several enlightened masters, such as Sri Nisargadatta, Annamalai Swami and others among Sri Ramana Maharshi’s immediate followers.

Thomas teaches in plain English, yet much of what he says would be recognized by people familiar with Advaita, Buddhism or Hinduism. Thomas has taught his book, Living the Paradox of Enlightenment: Ancient Nondual Wisdom for Today, as a class for the Center for Lifelong Learning, which is a part of Santa Barbara City College, the highest ranked community college in the United States. In September 2012, Thomas spoke for the prestigious lecture series, Mind and Supermind, which is run by Santa Barbara City College.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7xzgFQC0sU

[ZooLife]

German philosopher Hegel observed;

“The state of man’s mind, or the elementary phase of mind which he so far possesses, conforms precisely to the state of the world as he so far views it.”

[ZooLife]

Is it really any different to be outside the mind or in it?

Outside in
Inside out.

http://www.vr-gaming.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/vr-ar-free-to-do-what-we-tell-you.jpg?061464

http://m.c.lnkd.licdn.com/mpr/mpr/p/4/005/099/2b0/17b64aa.jpg

[greybeard]

The study of enlightenment is very practical in that it gives one the resource to deal with or surrender to what is.

Thomas Razzeto - Buddha at the Gas Pump Interview

I find this interview full of the practical as viewed from various levels---it gets better and better as the interview/conversation progresses.
Rick asks great questions which are answered beautifully.

Thomas is like an enthusiastic loving child.

C

[greybeard]

This is from the book by Thomas Razzeto

Living the Paradox of Enlightenment: Ancient Nondual Wisdom for Today

My most passionate plea is for you to wake up to your true self as pure awareness. We have all heard it said that you are not a human being having a spiritual experience, but instead, you are a spiritual being having a human experience. While that shift in understanding is of course very important, there is still a deeper wisdom. In truth, you are not a being of any kind, physical or spiritual. You are pure awareness! And most importantly, this awareness is the Divine Awareness, the only reality that was not created. This Divine Awareness is the source of all of creation and it is the only witness to it. This is your true fundamental self and this Source-Awareness is looking out of your eyes right now!

Our ancient nondual wisdom holds that God and creation are One Reality, not two, because this unseen Creator arises as all of creation. This is like an actor arising as a character. There is a difference between the actor and the character since the actor is the source of the character; it’s not the other way around. Yet when the actor arises as the character, they are identical. When you look into the eyes of the character, you are looking directly into the eyes of the actor. You do not have to go to a deeper level to find the actor. The actor transcends the character and yet also fully permeates the character. So it is with God and creation. It is God who is showing up as “everyOne” and it is God who is doing everything.

So you are not “just” pure formless Awareness; you also arise as the totality of created reality (all form) and you experience your life from the perspective of your own “personal self.” This book will help kindle your intuitive recognition of this nondual wisdom and help bring forth the fruit of enlightenment: loving kindness, compassion, peace and joy.

So what do you think? Are you inspired to learn more about the paradox of enlightenment? If so, this book just might offer you the clarity you have been looking for!

[betoobig]

Right here right now we live that paradox. Becouse as a forum we come to share our individual path, talking each one about it, from our own perspective and, at the same time, from Oneness !
To really understand any paradox we have to admit/accept/integrate that both options are right.
Much love

[greybeard]

Ganga Mira - Buddha at the Gas Pump Interview

Geneviève De Coux was born in 1947 in Namur, Belgium during her parents’ holidays. The family lived in the Belgian Congo. Geneviève and her brother enjoyed an idyllic childhood until 1960, the year of the Congo’s independence. The family emigrated to Belgium.

Their paradise was lost. Geneviève found herself in Brussels, this radical change of scenery stoked the fire of her ontological search and she found refuge in art. In 1968 during her second year at the university while studying her philosophy paper, she stumbled upon a saying of Socrates which hit her straight in the heart: “Know thyself”! Realising that this was precisely what she had always been looking for, she instantly dropped her studies and set out for India by road in search of a living Socrates or Buddha.

On reaching the Himalayan foot-hills, she led a meditative and ascetic life by the Ganges in Rishikesh, waiting to meet her master. The locals called her Mira because of her devoted renunciation. At the end of 1968, in circumstances well worthy of Indian mythology, she met a man with whom she had an awakening experience. He left the following day without Mira knowing anything about him, neither his name nor his address. The one certainty was that finally she had found her master. To give herself the best chance of seeing him again, she decided to live at the exact spot of their meeting. For eight months she waited for him and meditated under a little tree on the banks of the Ganga river.

One day, her master, H.W.L.Poonja, a disciple of Ramana Maharishi, came back for her. She became his disciple and wife and started to travel with him. In 1971, H.W.L Poonja was invited to give Satsang in Europe and Mira accompanied him. Their daughter Mukti was born in 1972 and the little family went on travelling the world. For the education of her daughter Mira returned to Belgium. In 1990, H.W.L Poonja, also called Papaji, settled permanently in Lucknow where he gave Satsang every day until he passed away in 1997.

In 1998, Mira was invited to give satsang, which she continues giving to this day all over the world. She decided to call herself Ganga. In 2004 Ganga Mira moved to Portugal. She lives near the wild ocean of the Algarve with her daughter Mukti and her grand-children, Arun and Satya, and gives satsang four times a week.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oRbjgglrc4A

[ZooLife]

All masks are one with the great mask. To transcend individual masks is to have done nothing that hasn't already been done.

The great mask rules perception yet it is itself a mask.

The mask no longer carries the burden it once did the moment this is realized.

For what mask or maze could hold thee?

[Wind]

yNiA4lQROnY

[greybeard]

Wayne Liquorman - Buddha at the Gas Pump Interview
Wayne Liquorman was both a spiritual seeker and a family man with a successful export business, when he met his first and final guru, Ramesh Balsekar, in September 1987. In April 1989 the process of seeking ended when enlightenment happened through the body-mind mechanism called Wayne.

Wayne describes the event as being "of interest only to seekers." His first book, No Way: A Guide For the Spiritually 'Advanced' was published in 1990 under the pen name Ram Tzu because he "didn't want a bunch of miserable seekers cluttering up his living room." In fact, Wayne did not speak publicly until Ramesh asked him to do so in 1996.

This enlightenment event and its aftermath are described in Wayne's second book, Acceptance of What IS, published in 2000. He is also the author of Never Mind... A journey into Non-duality, and the editor of Consciousness Speaks and several other books by Ramesh Balsekar, who refers to Wayne as his "spiritual son." His most recent book, Enlightenment Is Not What You Think, was published in 2009.

The teaching, as it happens through Wayne, is pure Advaita (non-duality), uniquely presented in a uncompromising, sometimes humorous way, without religious dogma or new age veneer. In his Talks, Wayne is without agenda, speaking only in response to seeker's questions. He talks about Consciousness: the ground of all being, the source and the substance of everything.

"This Advaita, as I talk about it, is not actually a philosophy, because it does not hold any tenets. It is simply a collection of pointers and concepts, and it posits that none of them are true in an absolute sense. This teaching is not about conveying the truth. It is about prying away the limitations and misconceptions about how things are." - from Never Mind

Wayne's message is clear and simple. Although he may suggest areas for further inquiry, Wayne offers no cures, practices, or miracles to reach enlightenment. He invites you to bring your most cherished beliefs to his Talks. If you are really fortunate, you may leave without them.

Wayne's site: http://www.advaita.org/




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YgHHwTT6fdk

[greybeard]

Ramesh Balsekar was known for his sense of humor.

One day he and Wayne went to the races.
Afterwards he was heard to say Lol "Whats point of enlightenment if you cant even back a winner at the races!!!"

Nothing to be taken too seriously.

c

[sms]

I am a bit confused if the “enlightement” and “awakening” have the same meaning, or the “enlightement” would be an aim of the personality, while the awakening would be the goal of the human being, considering this:

Definition of the Awakening (https://soulmindspirit.wordpress.com/2016/06/08/definition-of-awakening/)

?!?

…

[ZooLife]

https://jeurondove.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/under_construction.jpg

Posted to wrong thread but did not have anything to replace it at the moment. My apologies.

https://cdn1.cdnme.se/4079609/7-3/underconstruction_53f239fe2a6b2203ae327f36.png

Sara

[Wind]

I like the title of this one. Also the satsang contains some funny moments, injoy!

JD764kpFHFo

[greybeard]

I am a bit confused if the “enlightement” and “awakening” have the same meaning, or the “enlightement” would be an aim of the personality, while the awakening would be the goal of the human being, considering this:

Definition of the Awakening (https://soulmindspirit.wordpress.com/2016/06/08/definition-of-awakening/)


…

Hi sms, thanks for an important question.

Different definitions from different teachers.

My thought is that awakening is the process--even awakened is part of that and can mean an intellectual understanding.

Enlightenment means the removal of ignorance on all levels.
There is realization of the Self--there is no longer the idea --notion-- of an individual separate individual.
There is a complete realization--not work in progress.

Hope this helps

Chris

[sms]

I am a bit confused if the “enlightement” and “awakening” have the same meaning, or the “enlightement” would be an aim of the personality, while the awakening would be the goal of the human being, considering this:

Definition of the Awakening (https://soulmindspirit.wordpress.com/2016/06/08/definition-of-awakening/)

…

Hi sms, thanks for an important question.

Different definitions from different teachers.

My thought is that awakening is the process--even awakened is part of that and can mean an intellectual understanding.

Enlightenment means the removal of ignorance on all levels.
There is realization of the Self--there is no longer the idea --notion-- of an individual separate individual.
There is a complete realization--not work in progress.

Hope this helps

Chris

Thanks Chris,

I have just started the thread:

Just another wake up call… (http://projectavalon.net/forum4/showthread.php?91237-Just-another-wake-up-call--)

…where I will try to present my picture in regards to the possible difference between the awakening and the enlightement, as I think, I have got it, finally.

…

[ZooLife]

There is realization of the Self--there is no longer the idea --notion-- of an individual separate individual.


If one were to boil down 'individual' to one, that would still be illusory. As the saying goes... it takes one to know one.

http://img15.deviantart.net/5508/i/2010/318/0/f/it_takes_one_to_know_one_by_torsinm-d32v54e.jpg

'It takes one to know one', but which one? ;)

'It takes one to know one' is a closed system which is a limitation. The truth has none.

[ZooLife]

Enlightenment is most effective within a social network whether that be internal or externally experienced.
It's is a place where we can help remind each other who we truly are. This, while taking care not to be turned (around) into perceptible darkness.

(A) purpose of perception: To convince one that true enlightenment doe not exist and/ or only exists in the imagination. Perception is the blinders many 'see' with (including false enlightenment).

It would be reasonable to think that within absolute blindness one sees nothing. Hint# 5343: In a way this is true and in a way, not.

[Mark (Star Mariner)]

Random thoughts...

It's possible for someone to have a really big brain, but a very small mind. Big brains work on H-Bombs, or work on Wall Street. Very small minds also work on H-Bombs, and work on Wall Street.

Mind = awareness/consciousness. Brain = intelligence/raw information.

It's important to understand that the brain and the mind are not the same thing, and very few people have both that are highly developed.

Some, perhaps, will put Physics before Metaphysics, and fall short of the answers: they have big brains, but small minds. This is the dichotomy of the human condition. Where science and spirituality clash.

[betoobig]

Random thoughts...

It's possible for someone to have a really big brain, but a very small mind. Big brains work on H-Bombs, or work on Wall Street. Very small minds also work on H-Bombs, and work on Wall Street.

Mind = awareness/consciousness. Brain = intelligence/raw information.

It's important to understand that the brain and the mind are not the same thing, and very few people have both that are highly developed.

Some, perhaps, will put Physics before Metaphysics, and fall short of the answers: they have big brains, but small minds. This is the dichotomy of the human condition. Where science and spirituality clash.
I think the forever forgotten is the heart. The manipulation in our lenguage brings us concepts like "openminded", no one will ever really be openminded if they are never openhearted. Holding all toguether is key as we had been divided in and out side and sideways.
Much love

¤=[Post Update]=¤

Unity within and unity outside

[greybeard]

Random thoughts...

It's possible for someone to have a really big brain, but a very small mind. Big brains work on H-Bombs, or work on Wall Street. Very small minds also work on H-Bombs, and work on Wall Street.

Mind = awareness/consciousness. Brain = intelligence/raw information.

It's important to understand that the brain and the mind are not the same thing, and very few people have both that are highly developed.

Some, perhaps, will put Physics before Metaphysics, and fall short of the answers: they have big brains, but small minds. This is the dichotomy of the human condition. Where science and spirituality clash.

Welcome to the thread Star Mariner.
Yes there are clashes but I think--hope-- science is catching up.

Chris

[ZooLife]

If imagination were real the rational mind would not question its validity. I mean, only a crazy person questions reality, right? One would have to be a renowned scholarly scientists to be even remotely taken serious with that possibility. Most would either be marginalized, put into mental hospitalists and heavily medication, become artists, or a combination there of.

Questioning reality, especially its most sacred tenets, has to be considered one of the greatest mental taboos there is. Some would say that that is where insanity is born. To be fair, this is some really heady stuff.

It's like a building criticizing it's foundation for being weak. It's at the very least, outwardly contradictory.

I mean, if I am imaginary, how can I 'see' anything beyond imagination itself?

In 'truth' I cannot and that is hint number 5347. ;)

[Wind]

https://scontent-arn2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/12670166_10153413746543785_6524806196398772058_n.jpg?oh=fa653d34ced9dabb33d39875266226e8&oe=580C4B61

[DNA]

One of the reasons I'm not a fan of the word "enlightened" is because it's a bullsh!t word.


It's bullsh!t like if we were to make up a word for someone who could always stay on top of the water because they had figured out some kind of secret.
Let's call this word wushuwaterspitz.
Someone can be the best swimmer in the world, like say Michael Phelps and we can say he has attained wushuwaterspitz.
This guy could then write books and go on tours and pose on a box of zen master cereal.
And for all of his celebrity, Michael Phelps will drawn just like everyone else if he does not swim each and every time he gets into the water.
You never reach enlightenment, it is the result of work, just like floating on water is the result of swimming. And further more just like you need to constantly swim to stay above water, you need to constantly work to maintain your energy in terms of enlightenment. It is a constant battle.


Wisdom and understanding can be differentiated from mere knowledge in another important way in my opinion, and that is in an individuals energy or personal power.
Wisdom is having the energy to sustain understanding, while in this state one may be referred to as enlightened, but this same person could be a fat ass in two years eating chocolate donuts and watching Jerry Springer if he does not maintain his energy that allowed him to sustain understanding. This energy is spiritual energy and can be manifested through meditation and or the practice of a specific discipline that while in the midst meditation happens, this could be martial arts but it doesn't have to be, many athletes talk about being in the "zone" that is because while in the midst of their sport they enter into a meditation.


I suppose another way to put it is like this.
We and our energy are under attack every single freaking day.
There are forces that do not want us to wake up.
And many times those forces wear the mask of an enlightened guru offering enlightenment.
Christianity has gotten it wrong on so many levels in our modern era, but damn if they didn't have it right at one point with what the Gnostics were saying.
There are forces aligned against us to keep our spiritual perception darkened.
There can never be a STATE of enlightenment, because that would entail you have reached a permanent level of energetic connectedness where upon you were no longer attacked or besieged by dark forces.
The only thing that keeps the dark forces at bay is discipline that involves your mind/heart/body. Discipline that once proficient enough in allows you to turn off your internal dialogue for elongated periods of time.


Hi Chris
I mean nothing personal and no affront to you or your thread by this post.
I know you mean nothing but good, and I've never seen a post made by yourself where your intentions came across as anything but good. If this post offends in the slightest let me know and I'll erase it.

[ZooLife]

Enlightenment isn't so much a state as it is about recognizing the state one is in.

There is no work/ effort in recognizing that time after time and, of course, there is no time like the present.

Enlightenment is like being in two places at once, everyplace and no place, in which both cancel the other out.

[Shadowman]

Enlightenment isn't so much a state as it is about recognizing the state one is in.

There is no work/ effort in recognizing that time after time and, of course, there is no time like the present.

Enlightenment is like being in two places at once, everyplace and no place, in which both cancel the other out.


Hi Zoo and DNA,

Picture this.

The full moon reflecting in a lake.

Enlightenment is sometimes spoken of in the context of the full moon itself, or in the context of the reflection when the lake is still. While the full moon (ie Reality/God/Self/etc) is effortless and eternal, calming or "stilling" the reflection in the lake (ie mind) requires effort. It is only when the mind is still that ones illusory identity as the reflection is "seen" to be unreal.

While the reflection can "appear" to be "attacked" or prevented from awakening, this view stems from the incorrect identification with the mind. But how is this so? For it is not the full moon that identifies with the reflection.

Both the relative "I am" or ego, and the world, are aspects of the reflection. And both are part of the dream, which is always changing. When the mind/lake is stilled through correct meditation/sadhana/etc the illusory relative duality evanesces, and the absolute reality is unobscured.

The dream or illusion is maintained through continuous movement/activity/thoughts/feelings etc, just like the individual frames on a movie reel create the appearance of the movie. However, no matter how wonderful or tragic the movie, the screen is unaffected. To further this metaphor, while movies come and go, the screen remains.

To simply witness the mind with detachment, gradually "brings" one into alignment with pure awareness or being.

No words or beliefs, which are of the mind, can lead to awakening. They are just indicators. An awakened one uses words to lead you to silence. Don't get hung up on the word enlightenment - better to realize the indescribable first...


"Seek first the Kingdom of God, and all else will follow" - Matt 6:33

"The great way is not difficult, for those who have no preferences..." - Hsin Hsin Ming

"When the world is, the Self is not - when the Self is, the world is not" - I am That, Nisargadatta

"The real does not die, the unreal never lived." - I am That, Nisargadatta

"Nothing real can be harmed, nothing unreal exists" - A Course in Miracles

"It doesn't punish, doesn't reward, it just IS" - George Carlin, The Big Electron

"Be still and (g)know that you are God" - Psalm 46:10

With Love

tim

[greybeard]

DNA you are welcome to post here anytime.
I have the highest regard for the way you express yourself with respect for others.
It would never do if we all held the same opinion/viewpoint, its the way that we handle our own and opposing perspectives that is important, to my mind.
There being different levels of energy and seeming truths in duality--what is appropriate and seen to be true at one level may not be at another.

Love Chris

ps ------One meaning of the word enlightenment is the removal of ignorance--the ignorance being identification with the story of me as a separate entity.

Self realisation is another and perhaps clearer description.
All that is not the true Self has been removed --fallen away---concepts, belief systems gone.
What is left is the realised Self, One-no other--no second. No subject nor object--no duality.
Thats non-duality.

C

[ZooLife]

Often times one describes what something looks like and not that which it is.

That which is, is indescribable. What is actually described is the mind's attempt to get it's head around it.

It may be able to get it's head around 'it' but that is the head describing itself.

I know, I know, I am describing. What can I say? I am just (a)head. ;)

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/1f/28/f5/1f28f5b9e6ce5922cb1d4d601a5cd177.jpg

[Wind]

Very often, on the direct path to Self-knowledge, the mind attacks 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 timelessly one.

Always this will happen on the direct path.
Remember, you are the untouched presence observing the entire dramas of the wins and losses of the so-called person.

You don't need to move the mind aside to get to Truth for Truth is not apart from you.
It is already what you are. Be confirmed in this.

Simply recognise and stay as the formless, history-less Self.
Here mind is powerless.

The most profound victory occurs when the psychological, limiting, personal 'I' and its negative mind conditioning have no more significance or hold over you. When its 'pull' is gone, you are authentically free as pure impersonal awareness.

This is the case when you are clear that you are the formless and unchanging Self.

~ Mooji

[greybeard]

The thread is heading for the half million views/visits.
Who would have thought this possible a few years back.
I suspect this is evidence of an increasing interest in Non-duality.
Many thanks to all who contribute and visit.
Much love c

[DNA]

ps ------One meaning of the word enlightenment is the removal of ignorance--the ignorance being identification with the story of me as a separate entity.

I'll agree with you here.
I could see a form of enlightenment being the disentanglement of self from society. In so much as becoming an autonomous being, one has to spend a few years slicing away the preprogrammed aspects that you have mistakingly confused as your true self. You could say these would be false paradigms, and the removal of which has to happen before any progress can be made any where else.

But, it is my CBT that we never truly transcend the EGO. The Ego is different in my estimation than socially planted paradigms. The Ego will always be a part of our being while alive, and the only moments we truly transcend it are when our spiritual energy is high enough to do so. These moments do not last unless you are making this your life's focus, like the Buhhda Boy, or one of those monks we see mummified on the side of a mountain. It is truly that difficult to transcend your ego. In my opinion people do not truly understand the colossal undertaking of transcending the ego. And this is why I feel so many people who claim they are enlightened truly do not understand what they are talking about.
Granted, I've had a few glimpses and the work that went into those glimpses was monumental, and I also dare say I was smacked down by dark forces.
I'm far from enlightened and I know this. But, through my glimpses, I also know how rare those few are who actually attain a state of detachment from the human form. So when folks include transcending the ego as being enlightened, I'll have to state how difficult this is, and how I almost never believe those who state such.

[ZooLife]

Duality is like a vaccum

It draws one in.

Duality believes it is whole of which it is a part.

Identify with a part and a-part you become.

But don't forget, it's a part no matter how much you identify with it.

[ZooLife]

But, it is my CBT that we never truly transcend the EGO.

In dualistic fashion, yes and no.

It is all wrapped in identity.

In a non(e) sense way, what Ego?

In a sense that sentence is true, especially with the 'we' in it.

Ego cannot transcend itself. It would be like playing leapfrog with oneself. ;)


https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/34/84/57/3484573e19cbd1329f10e60232617b4c.jpg

[ZooLife]

I think a stumbling block some people have is that when they speak of 'all that is', they include God.

How one interprets the above sentence I wrote will have a lot to do with what one identifies with.

As many will realize, there is more then one way to interpret that sentence.

[greybeard]

in Truth you are all that is.
c

[Mark (Star Mariner)]

in Truth you are all that is.
c

Exactly :)

Like if you take a drop of water out of the ocean. For a brief time, the drop of water may feel that all it is is a drop in isolation - living with lots of other little drops in similar isolation. But it is still part of the ocean.

When it sees past the illusion of separation, and joins with the ocean again, it is no longer a drop (and never was). It isn't even part of the ocean. It is one and the same as the ocean: in fact it is the ocean.

[ZooLife]

in Truth you are all that is.
c

in Truth you are all that is.

you are all that is

all that is

is

.

[ZooLife]

in Truth you are all that is.
c

Exactly :)

Like if you take a drop of water out of the ocean. For a brief time, the drop of water may feel that all it is is a drop in isolation - living with lots of other little drops in similar isolation. But it is still part of the ocean.

When it sees past the illusion of separation, and joins with the ocean again, it is no longer a drop (and never was). It isn't even part of the ocean. It is one and the same as the ocean: in fact it is the ocean.

Of course that is a analogy as there is no drop and there is no ocean.

In the same way...

There is no part and there is no whole.

On the surface that last sentence doesn't look right but I intended more from it that how it initially appears.

[Wind]

The person is noisy and seeks peace, but cannot find it.
Peace is not a gift one receives from outside.
Paradoxically, it arises from within when the 'person',
who appears to be seeking it, is seen to be unreal.
Trust. When there is true urge to find Truth, grace reveals what mind cannot.
Peace is here, behind the mind, awaiting recognition.
It is unmixed Presence—timelessly present.
It is synonymous with your true Self but not with your person.
You exist without the 'person' but the 'person' cannot exist without you, for it is not sentient, whereas You are.
Turn your attention within and discern the Real from the unreal.

~ Mooji

[Mark (Star Mariner)]

Of course that is a analogy as there is no drop and there is no ocean.

In the same way...

There is no part and there is no whole.
.

Clarification? A bit paradoxical in a sense, as it would imply that: no drop, and no ocean = nothing at all. Or that 'All-that-is' is nothing. When it is everything.

[ZooLife]

Of course that is a analogy as there is no drop and there is no ocean.

In the same way...

There is no part and there is no whole.
.

Clarification? A bit paradoxical in a sense, as it would imply that: no drop, and no ocean = nothing at all. Or that 'All-that-is' is nothing. When it is everything.

All is everything in appearances but really it is construct. It does not, in anyway, diminish that which is transcendent.

[Enola]

“Your dream is to feel good; God’s dream is for you to do good.”

― Shannon Alder

[ZooLife]

“Your dream is to feel good; God’s dream is for you to do good.”

― Shannon Alder

And.......

Ironically, that is a 'feel good' quote.

[betoobig]

Of course that is a analogy as there is no drop and there is no ocean.

In the same way...

There is no part and there is no whole.
.

Clarification? A bit paradoxical in a sense, as it would imply that: no drop, and no ocean = nothing at all. Or that 'All-that-is' is nothing. When it is everything.
That is the beauty of the paradox, both are true.
Much love

[greybeard]

A quote that may help.
"You are form-formless, both and neither"

It would seem that there is an emptiness, a no-thing, of great potential.

That which can not be spoken of.

The sages try to meet you/us/me where we stand---all levels.
Now and then something is let slip.
"There was/is neither creation or dissolution" Ramana Maharshi
"There was never any one there to do anything to you" Eckhart Tolle.
He also said that is not helpful.

"Nothing ever happened" Mooji

Time is needed ---duality, form, is needed for things to happen.

There is no way my mind can get round any of this, yet I know its true--don't ask me how--I don't know.

Love c

Several have said " No subject no object"

[ZooLife]

http://beforeitsnews.com/mediadrop/uploads/2013/51/675c2cf6ebcb4dbb3f340589c8b1044b5022bcdc.jpg

[Enola]

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mysteries-Yesod-007-Complete-Works/dp/2855661099/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1466152475&sr=8-1

I bought "The Mysteries of Yesod" today. Seeing as I'm working so hard on purity, and there's bound to be some useful stuff.

[greybeard]

Jurgen Ziewe - Buddha at the Gas Pump Interview

Published on Jun 17, 2016

Also see https://batgap.com/jurgen-ziewe

Jurgen Ziewe has been following a strict regime of meditation since 1969. In 1973, after a six month stint of intensive meditation for up to five hours a day, he decided to abandon the practice completely, being disappointed with the lack of progress and some negative side effects. Then one day out of the blue, at breakfast, he spontaneously experienced a total dissociation from his body and entered a state of what he described as one of absolute clarity. After this he continued his meditation practice, but now paying homage to the experience with more humility than before. He directly attributes the spontaneous Out-of-body experiences that followed for the next forty years, to this powerful experience of consciousness singularity.

Jurgen has spent hundreds of hours, mostly in a super waking awareness in these out-of-body states, which frequently lasted several hours at a time. He soon mapped out what he considered to be the multidimensional reality man inhabits after physical death.

On one of these non-physical excursions he was met by a Chinese Master who put him through an intensive training process in order for him to reach much higher states of consciousness. In 1980, on one of these OBE journeys, he was taken once more into a state of absolute clarity. This and other significant experiences were chronicled in his diaries and later published in his books, "Multidimensional Man" in 2008 and "Vistas of Infinity" in 2015, by which time he had experienced another singularity event on a solitary mountain retreat, later published in his book, “The Ten Minute Moment”.

Jurgen sees himself as a reporter not as a teacher. His down-to-earth narrative has attracted the attention from the science community and he has recently contributed a chapter to a science publication entitled, “Consciousness Beyond The Body” by Alexander de Foe, where he explores the nature of nonphysical consciousness, in collaboration with other experiencers.

In his working life Jurgen Ziewe is a sought after commercial illustrator with a global clientele. Using the latest CG technology of the film industry has allowed him to document his experiences in alternate realities in a very visual format. His graphic testimonies have been likened to those of Swedenborg and his accounts of the higher spiritual realms give a vivid insight into the infinite strata of human consciousness which is rarely reported in such depth and detail.

Websites: http://multidimensionalman.com Some of Jurgen's "multidimensional" artwork: http://www.magicfantasyart.com/magicf... Virtual reality videos: http://www.magicfantasyart.com/magicf... Celestial-Song - Angel of the Earth - A new virtual reality project between Jurgen and composer Craig Pruess: https://vimeo.com/114123035 Jurgen's commercial art: http://www.3d-art.co.uk/www.3d-art.co...

Other Books: Explorations in Consciousness: A New Approach to Out-of-Body Experiences The Phase: Shattering the Illusion of Reality New Territories

Interview conducted 6/11/2016


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

[ZooLife]

You know friends, I have been perplexed as to why the 'light bulb' that goes off when a deep spiritual truth is revealed to me that......... why isn't it conscious in me 24/7? I mean it is so authentically powerful that I would think it would never be forgotten.

Is it because it is stored in a place that is like a sandy beach or an Etch a Sketch? A place where the next shake or wave washes it away? Maybe that is why people wear symbolic jewelry, tattoos and have rituals.... a way to ward off the loss of this 'knowledge'. I could see the interest this type of methodology but I can't help thinking that such methodology is also the the beginning of the first wave of first shake of..... Isn't that one of the warnings embedded in "Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image"?

Maybe the aid (graven forms of any kind) is okay until It is needed no longer...... until it is no longer a memory .......... it simply IS.

[ZooLife]

Of course that is a analogy as there is no drop and there is no ocean.

In the same way...

There is no part and there is no whole.
.

Clarification? A bit paradoxical in a sense, as it would imply that: no drop, and no ocean = nothing at all. Or that 'All-that-is' is nothing. When it is everything.

All is everything in appearances but really it is construct. It does not, in anyway, diminish that which is transcendent.

From any point of view in all of existence, consciousness is everything until something crosses that threshold, it is nothing. What if THAT consciousness was a cover for.......... ?

One can not know that for sure because that is part of the cover. But then again, this post is part of that cover as well, the best that it can do is hint at........

One could say that I use the words all or everything more 'personal' then I typically see them used.

[greybeard]

According to Eckhart Tolle" Consciousness is evolving to know itself."
So there is limited consciousness which is the norm for most people and unlimited for the few.
There can be a flip flop --back and forward for years until it stabilizes.
Seem there are levels of Enlightenment till the final door is walked through.
This is accompanied by great fear---according to the late Dr David Hawkins.
Similar fear is expressed in the recent video by Jurgen Ziewe -----he did not walk through the door.
Hawkins gave the number of enlightened at that time some years back---there was only one at the level of Christ--Buddha etc and about twenty others at various levels.
I have no opinion on this.

Chris

[betoobig]

According to Eckhart Tolle" Consciousness is evolving to know itself."
So there is limited consciousness which is the norm for most people and unlimited for the few.
There can be a flip flop --back and forward for years until it stabilizes.
Seem there are levels of Enlightenment till the final door is walked through.
This is accompanied by great fear---according to the late Dr David Hawkins.
Similar fear is expressed in the recent video by Jurgen Ziewe -----he did not walk through the door.
Hawkins gave the number of enlightened at that time some years back---there was only one at the level of Christ--Buddha etc and about twenty others at various levels.
I have no opinion on this.

Chris
Pendulo law, it goes from side to side streching the path as it comes to stillness .
Much love

[greybeard]

Call Off The Search ◦ Sri Harilal Poonja ♥ Papaji ◦ Full Movie (1993)
H.W.L. Poonja Satsang
(Mooji's teacher--of the Ramana Lineage)


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

[ZooLife]

Reflecting on enlightenment:

To me enlightenment is like the closest layer of all the layers of an onion.

Could it be that the innermost part of the innermost layer is the most conscious of the non-layer/ hollow core? The closer one is to ..... (is conscious of) this the more convinced and convicted the experience is.

There is no hollow core to an onion said the devil's advocate!

Reply: How close are you to........? ;)


Then since words are dualistic, lets put the word enlightenment as the hollow core.

It that case my analogy to that would be like someone saying the word enlightenment and upon hearing it nothing registers regarding the word. No judgement, no analyzing etc. It passed so fast it was like it was never there. That would an analogy to enlightenment.

Then there would be the false enlightenment where someone saying the word enlightenment and all kinds of ideas emerge to define it arise all the while forgetting that defining enlightenment isn't enlightenment.

I know, an ironic post, right?

(See what I mean, not only convinced but convicted as I mentioned in a prior post.)

[Mark (Star Mariner)]

'
You know friends, I have been perplexed as to why the 'light bulb' that goes off when a deep spiritual truth is revealed to me that......... why isn't it conscious in me 24/7? I mean it is so authentically powerful that I would think it would never be forgotten.


I've had these light bulb moments myself. Once, for a short period, I occupied a state of 'all-time'. I was aware of all-time being all-infinite, having no beginning and no end; it existed as one infinite second, or nanosecond, or literally not even a second. Just an eternal now. Forever.

I think most of us here understand that notion of time metaphysically. But to actually feel it, see it, and be in it, is something else entirely. And I think that's what you're talking about.

Like you, the knowingness (or rather 'feelingness') of this light bulb moment didn't last either. I too wondered why, and theorized:

We are, in essence, spirit, which is consciousness. Our super-consciousness exists extra-dimensionally. And although we are 'all'-consciousness, only a part of it can operate in 3-D human awareness, because that is all our puny human brains (and psyche) can handle.

Therefore, I suppose, we experience these 'light bulb' moments and temporary glimpses of higher concepts in an enlightened state outside our physicality, and afterwards they cannot be contained (translated back into) our physically (the brain).

Even though the state or quality of condition by which the experience came about will naturally slip away (like dreams often do, for the same reasons) we can at least retain the intellectual concept - though it might well be coloured, filtered, or distorted by the limitations of that physical brain of ours.

[greybeard]

I think we get these moments,lengthy or otherwise, to encourage us, to show us we are heading in the right direction, so to speak.

Love c

[Mark (Star Mariner)]

I think so too. As we stumble forward in the dark, a flash here and there can briefly illuminate the way, helping us on our journey.

[ZooLife]

It is as if our individual consciousness creates a 'home' and at some point, possibly in meditation, a realization comes that this isn't home. It has a familiarity to it but something is amiss.

The individual consciousness will create an ever increasing sophisticated home that will appear real, for a time, but will ultimately have that same amiss-ness. That amiss-ness is Spirit's conviction that 'this' isn't IT.

One could say that in some ways the individual consciousness hasn't left the caveman days, still living in caves. I know, I for one have left many a thought written on the cave walls. Soon they become decorations that adorn these same walls, floor, and ceiling.

Then the walls fall away but the extensive decoration of writings, drawings etc. remain as another kind of wall until that too falls away into a undecorated-ness, a brilliant silence.

As one can see, I am still painting (on) walls.

http://babybirdsfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/20131108-152216.jpg

[greybeard]

PAPAJI - You are God



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

[Mark (Star Mariner)]

Individuality

Individuality - boils down to two principal perceptive states: ego and consciousness. One's ego complements consciousness, one's (level of) consciousness defines ego.

Duality...expressing itself individually.

[betoobig]

Individuality

Individuality - boils down to two principal perceptive states: ego and consciousness. One's ego complements consciousness, one's (level of) consciousness defines ego.

Duality...expressing itself individually.

Beutifully nailed, thank you.
Much love

[ZooLife]

Individuality
One's ego complements consciousness, one's (level of) consciousness defines ego.


There is actually layers of usefulness in that quote of yours, Star Mariner. It's like an algorithm for the ego.

Some would say there is a difference between a small ego and a big ego but I maintain there isn't. It's a ploy of the ego to pretend to elevate itself above itself. Or the other extreme where it de-elevates itself below itself.... a kind of, "look at poor me....." or "I am more pious then you" behaviorism.

When it comes to ego, it's a full meal deal.

You know what ego would say to all that don't you? "Obviously" or "Tell me more, master" ;)

.................................................................................................... ....

Everything exists inside of ego and ego inside itself.

I guess we are playing inside today. ;)

[betoobig]

Ego fears death i dont
Love

[greybeard]

I downloaded the free meditation (Ohm) from Sacred Acoustics--its ok.

This is recommended by Dr Eben Alexander (NDE) who contributes towards the developing of these meditations.

The site is well worth a visit

Chris

http://www.sacredacoustics.com/

[ZooLife]

Ego, the death experience

http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_content_width/hash/64/c3/64c3e7030281dfca78a503eb6b6d34b1.jpg?itok=rH78DAGx

Ticket please

http://orig11.deviantart.net/f984/f/2012/045/7/0/ticket_to_hell_by_vashthepsicho-d4potlr.jpg

[greybeard]

Craig Holliday - Buddha at the Gas Pump Interview
Published on Jan 5, 2015

Also see http://batgap.com/craig-holliday/

Craig Holliday is both a Nondual teacher and Licensed Professional Counselor, offering Nondual Therapy and Meditation workshops, retreats and Satsang. His work is dedicated to the discovery of our innate Divinity through embracing our Humanity. He works in a way that addresses our everyday suffering as a doorway to our inherent freedom. He meets with individuals in Durango, Colorado and from around the world on Skype.

At just 19, Craig began apprenticing under his teacher David in Southwest Colorado. David, a little-known meditation master, (who lives a private meditative life) guided Craig for 20 years, in the lineage of Sri Aurobindo. This relationship deeply shaped Craig’s life and teachings.

During the last 10 years Craig also studied with Adyashanti who guided him through 4 profound awakenings (head, heart, Hara and Kundalini). Upon request from others, Craig began sharing these nondual teachings in Satsang.

Over the years, Craig has received ongoing support with teaching and his personal life from David, Adya, Jon Bernie, Lama Tsultrim and others. Despite profoundly awakening to the truth of his own being, Craig also understands the evolutionary nature of our souls and values the work of continually examining our humanity (both individually and with teachers), while surrendering to our Divinity in greater and greater ways. He shares this same invitation to others.

Website: http://craigholliday.com

Book: Fully Human Fully Divine, Awakening to our Innate Beauty through Embracing our Humanity



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

[Wind]

Something inside wants to burst open.
The ego state is like caterpillar.
It shouldn't be caterpillar all its life.
Caterpillar has to become butterfly.
Butterfly means to break free of ego,
to find your Truth,
your beauty,
your freedom,
your life!

~ Mooji

https://scontent-amt2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13516399_813652802104620_4526518375399387264_n.jpg?oh=6a13d446e07b47b778eb2eeb3e91fc32&oe=580F6429

[ZooLife]

Human perception is generally far-sighted and as such finds the closest and most important.....blurred to the point that it cannot make out properly what it is.

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/03/55/11/0355112baf23d045765faafa73853018.jpg

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/f9/ae/97/f9ae97cd3871b46fdd25460b7dd5a46e.jpg

[greybeard]

I get drawn back from time to time to Ramana Maharshi teachings.
He was one of the first for me--I felt the energy but did not understand what was being conveyed.
Its a big jump from believing, I am the individual person, to having some intellectual understanding and the feeling that this Truth spoken of by Ramana and others, is so.

With love
Ch





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

[Wind]

"In 1934, Paul Brunton published his first book, A Search in Secret India, which was spectacularly successful. This was the first time he used his pen name, which came about partly by design and partly by accident. He had selected the name Brunton Paul for himself, but the typesetter accidentally changed it to Paul Brunton, and it stuck. His friends called him “PB.”

Over the years, Brunton's fledgling book, which records his early adventures in India, won him a quarter million readers. They were drawn from among the growing circle of Westerners who, in their disenchantment with the Christian establishment, were turning toward the Orient.

In particular, Brunton's book brought fame to one of the finest representatives of modern Hindu spirituality, Ramana Maharshi (1879-1950), who must not be confused with Maharshi Mahesh Yogi, the founder of the Transcendental Meditation™ movement.

The description of his encounter with Sri Ramana in South India is perhaps the most enthralling part of the book (A Search in Secret India (http://www.courtofrecord.org/archive/Paul-Brunton-A-Search-in-Secret-India.pdf)). Here is a sampling of Brunton's neatly journalistic treatment:

“I fold a thin cotton blanket upon the floor and sit down, gazing expectantly at the silent figure in such a rigid attitude upon the couch... If he is aware of my presence, he betrays no hint, gives no sign. His body is supernaturally quiet, as steady as a statue. Not once does he catch my gaze, for his eyes continue to look into remote space, and infinitely remote it seems.”

At first, Brunton expects something to happen, and “the minutes creep by with unutterable slowness.” In the end, the sage's total quietness communicated itself to Brunton. Two hours later, he was still in a state of deep restfulness and meditation. Someone prodded Brunton, reminding him to ask his questions. Yet the peace that had overwhelmed him had also wiped out all his questions. At least they had vanished until his next meeting with Sri Ramana. Brunton had many animated conversations with the sage, in which he was always thrown back upon his own inner resource.

On Brunton's last day at the ashram, Ramana Maharshi again chose to be completely silent. He rested his peaceful gaze on the man from the West: It was a profound initiatory gaze. As Brunton described it:

“His eyes shine with astonishing brilliance. Strange sensations begin to arise in me. Those lustrous orbs seem to be peering into the inmost recesses of my soul... I become aware that he is definitely linking my own mind with his, that he is provoking my heart into that state of starry calm which he seems perpetually to enjoy.”

Time stood still. The hall emptied, as one disciple after another quietly left. Then only the sage and Brunton were left behind.

“I am alone with the Maharishee! Never before has this happened. His eyes begin to change; they narrow down to pin-points. The effect is curiously like the “stopping-down” in the focus of a camera lens. There comes a tremendous increase in the intense gleam which shines between the lids, now almost closed. Suddenly, my body seems to disappear, and we are both out in space!”

There was much that Brunton did not report in his books, but which he later confided or hinted at to trusted friends. For instance, Brunton confided to one of his students that when he arrived at Ramana's hermitage all those years ago, the sage and he went for a long walk. Ramana told him that he, Brunton, had been graced with the highest state as a young man but lost it when the ego-personality reasserted itself. Now he had to work to recapture that condition he once enjoyed spontaneously."

Paul Brunton with Sri Ramana Maharshi.

https://scontent-amt2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13466109_810446362425264_437428094889641057_n.jpg?oh=d8ad31aad9d9fe10f6e630264b56e9c4&oe=57C0DB7C

[greybeard]

Timothy Conway
as spoken of by Thomas Razetto .

C

Also see http://batgap.com/timothy-conway/

This "insubstantial figure in the dream, pointing to the Divine Dreamer," has lived and studied the nondual essence of our sacred tradi­tions for 40 years since an utterly life-changing, spontaneous awakening to God or Reality in his 16th year in the hills of Southern California. Timothy fortunately met many enlightened masters, esp­ec­i­ally in Advaita Vedanta (Sri Nisarga­datta Maharaj, Annamalai Swami and others among Sri Ramana Maharshi's immediate followers, Amma Amritanandamayi, Anandamayi Ma, Mother Krishnabai, Dadaji of Calcutta, et al.) and various lines of Buddhism (Taungpulu Sayadaw, Shifu Hsuan Hua, H.H. the Dalai Lama, Seung Sahn, et al.), as well as spiritual adepts in Taoism, Sufism and mystic Christianity and Judaism. Timothy has freely shared the "pathless path" of deep spirituality for over 25 years in satsangs and in free ongoing education classes at the Santa Barbara City College. Author of Women of Power & Grace: Nine Astonishing, Inspiring Luminaries of Our Time and the forthcoming India's Sages-- Volume 1, India's Sages: Nondual Wisdom from the Heart of Freedom, profiles 40 authentic sages from the modern era; the even more massive Volume 2, India's Sages Source Book: Nondual Wisdom from Hindus, Buddhists, Jainas, Tantrics, Sants, Sikhs & Sufis, features over 120 wonderful sages and scriptures from India's "living past." A trilogy of works focusing on nondual spirituality, religion, science and political justice is also in preparation.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egAkIEv2Kxg

[greybeard]

Rays of the Absolute (the Legacy of Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj)
Published on Mar 27, 2015

In 2006 Stephen Wolinsky proposed the idea of traveling to India to film Nisargadatta Maharaj’s translators and disciples to explore the legacy Maharaj left behind in his hometown, Mumbai.

In 2007 Zaya and Maurizio Benazzo together with Stephen Wolinsky, Philip Safarik and Fred Good traveled to India to shoot this film.

The meeting with the old devotees was both illuminating as well as deeply touching.

Over the next seven and a half years, we all plugged away, going through mounds of material allowing this project to reach completion.

The film you are about to see cannot demonstrate the amount of work that went into this project….but let’s simply say that finally it is complete…

Nisargadatta did not leave an ashram; he did not leave any teachings nor successors. This movie is a homage to him; a look at his unintended legacy from people that have been inspired by him more then words can express.

This film contains interviews with four of the old Nisargadatta's translators: Ramesh Balsekar, S.K. Mullarpattan, Mohan and Jayashri Gaitonde,plus some old indian devotees and trustees, the publishers of "I Am That" and a visit to the old room in which Maharaj was holding his meetings, his Guru Samadhi Shrine and the place in which some of Maharaj ashes are preserved.
In the footage are also presented exclusive photographs of Maharaji's cremation ceremony.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugK51abLMtI

[ZooLife]

To be or not to be

-- William Shakespeare

Is it identity or something beyond identity that is asking the question..... through identity?

It must ask the question through identity since it is unidentified.

If it is identity asking the question, it has it's answer, otherwise the answer is mute. Mute is neither right, wrong nor unanswered.

[greybeard]

Interesting to hear a scientist speaking on these related matters.


Published on Jun 9, 2016

Also see https://batgap.com/bernardo-kastrup-2/

Bernardo Kastrup has a Ph.D. in computer engineering with specializations in artificial intelligence and reconfigurable computing. He has worked as a scientist in some of the world's foremost research laboratories, including the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) and the Philips Research Laboratories (where the "Casimir Effect" of Quantum Field Theory was discovered). Bernardo has authored many scientific papers and philosophy books. His three most recent books are: More Than Allegory, Brief Peeks Beyond and Why Materialism Is Baloney. He has also been an entrepreneur and founder of a successful high-tech start-up. Next to a managerial position in the high-tech industry, Bernardo maintains a philosophy blog, a video interview series, and continues to develop his ideas about the nature of reality. He has lived and worked in four different countries across continents, currently residing in the Netherlands. For a rigorous, analytical summary of his philosophical ideas, see this short, freely available pre-print paper.

Books: Why Materialism Is Baloney: How True Skeptics Know There Is No Death and Fathom Answers to life, the Universe, and Everything Meaning in Absurdity: What bizarre phenomena can tell us about the nature of reality Dreamed Up Reality: Diving into the Mind to Uncover the Astonishing Hidden Tale of Nature Rationalist Spirituality: An exploration of the meaning of life and existence informed by logic and science More Than Allegory: On Religious Myth, Truth And Belief Website: http://bernardokastrup.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LiBb7-yx2iI

[Enola]

http://www.azquotes.com/picture-quotes/quote-if-you-pursue-happiness-you-are-an-ordinary-person-if-happiness-pursues-you-you-are-peter-deunov-86-86-65.jpg

[Wind]

HgjIM4rK_-w

[Zampano]

A great surprise---Part 2 David Godman from Buddha at the Gas Pump
David is the authorized biographer of two devotees of Sri Ramana Maharshi (Lakshmana Swamy and Papaji) who realized the Self in Sri Ramana’s presence and who later went on to become gurus themselves.

The first interview was a blast and his own youtube channel is full of good advices on Self Enquiry!

uyC3yBRsBt8


Self Enquiry was the most powerful tool I found...thanks to Chris

Enjoy the interview

[greybeard]

Talks on Sri Ramana Maharshi: Narrated by David Godman - Arunachala

This is the final installment of this series of talks I gave on Ramana Maharshi in 2014. It includes a summary of the Hindu myths associated with Arunachala, Sri Ramana Maharshi's association with the mountain, and with stories of other people and saints who have felt the power of the mountain.


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

[Guish]

Good lesson on the ego which always wants to prove something.

[ZooLife]

Good lesson on the ego which always wants to prove something.

Nothing bigger then itself, Guish.

Ego is so unbelievably sly, so sly that it puts the greatest sly characters to ever walk planet earth to shame, IMO.

Ego is good at identifying ego while neglecting that it is the one identifying thus believing itself exempt from scrutiny.

In depth self-scrutiny is an eye opening experience to say the least.

http://www.xaxamason.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/mirrormirror.jpg

http://img.picturequotes.com/2/27/26796/a-moment-or-two-of-serious-selfscrutiny-and-you-might-observe-that-you-no-more-decide-the-next-quote-1.jpg

[greybeard]

I Am That - Nisargadatta Maharaj - Revisited with Adyashanti

True religion is the religion of the Self.
It is in being aware of awareness, in one's true nature,
and stabilizing oneself there. - Helmut Eckart


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhP1-6DX3cM

[greybeard]

Paul Hedderman


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_7bfnQE4eI

[Guish]

Good lesson on the ego which always wants to prove something.

Nothing bigger then itself, Guish.

Ego is so unbelievably sly, so sly that it puts the greatest sly characters to ever walk planet earth to shame, IMO.

Ego is good at identifying ego while neglecting that it is the one identifying thus believing itself exempt from scrutiny.

In depth self-scrutiny is an eye opening experience to say the least.

http://www.xaxamason.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/mirrormirror.jpg

http://img.picturequotes.com/2/27/26796/a-moment-or-two-of-serious-selfscrutiny-and-you-might-observe-that-you-no-more-decide-the-next-quote-1.jpg

There's no need to over analyse as the experience of bliss that comes with no thought cannot be described.

[Mark (Star Mariner)]

Don't just live to live.

or just love to love.

Love to Live

and

Live to Love.

[ZooLife]

Upon *thorough* observation of it's surroundings a single grain of sand determines life is a beach.

http://i.imgur.com/wT3Zga8.gif

[Zampano]

Today a funny and an interesting thought occurred:

Where does enlightenment starts and where does it end?

Sounds a little bit stupid, but I couldnt hold myself back from laughter and giggling for some hours.
I still have to laugh....
Thats so paradox in its nature and it is freedom
I will leave it like that

[joeecho]

Since enlightenment by it's nature is undefinable (a word is used for conversing but that doesn't define it), and ideas like start and end are defining words, they cannot begin to define. Words are but hints of .....

For pure enlightenment, words and ideas appear like gibberish where beginning and ending have no meaning making them effectively nonexistent. That or they are only used to write a story like:

http://static1.squarespace.com/static/5213f3c4e4b0c09536a0bb5e/t/571efb4a8a65e27f81809487/1461648228436/?format=750w

[Mark (Star Mariner)]

Today a funny and an interesting thought occurred:

Where does enlightenment starts and where does it end?


Enlightenment is merely knowledge, and knowledge is energy. Energy cannot be created, nor can it be destroyed.

Therefore in my opinion, the human word 'enlightenment', and what it means, is a circle.

http://www.math.com/school/subject3/images/S3U1L6GLcircle.gif

It does not begin, and it does not end.

[greybeard]

Will Brennan - Buddha at the Gas Pump Interview
Published on Jul 4, 2016

Also see https://batgap.com/will-brennan/

What I share is not based on spiritual, philosophical or psychological theory alone, but on direct insight. There is an unchanging awareness of all phenomena that is not tarnished by the coming and going of temporal expressions.

This unchanging awareness could be called the 'Still Self" as it is the one constant that witnesses the dynamic play of consciousness in all its guises. To recognise that there is a greater power that is not prone to suffering or corruption is to begin to awaken to our 'Undivided Self.' Within this dynamic play of life there is also a 'functioning sense of self' that allows for the beauty of relationship, creating the impression of 'me' and 'other.' But the possibility of this imaginal separation can create such confusion and suffering when taken to be all that we are.

My joy as a simple Being is to point you back to your 'True Self,' like a bird greeting the morning sun, my nature is to sing.

All phenomena, whether that form be a thought, body, planet, smell, theory, ant or cloud is bound by the law of impermanence, for whatever comes must go, whatever is born will die.

Yet all phenomena arise within this unbounded awareness, the sole unchanging reality.

All of manifestation sings the song of the unborn 'Still Self' for those who have ears to hear.

And when this unchanging nature is realized to be our 'Self,' then we may also come to see that this dynamic play of consciousness is no other than a clear expression of the divinity that we are. What we are as aware stillness and what we are as dynamic consciousness are not two irreconcilable opposing forces but an inseparable mystery I like to call 'dynamic stillness.'

Book: Embracing No Other: Awakening through shamanic plant medicines to non-dual awareness of no-self

Website: http://embracingnoother.com



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNufwbFLR-o

[ZooLife]

Today a funny and an interesting thought occurred:

Where does enlightenment starts and where does it end?


http://www.math.com/school/subject3/images/S3U1L6GLcircle.gif

It does not begin, and it does not end.

From the perspective of a circle, a beginning or end do not exist unless there is an imaginary break.

Everything has a beginning and so an ending from the premise of this imaginary break.

[greybeard]

Its beyond my understanding.

If you think "God " does not know what you are going to do next, think again.

I dont know what my next thought will be--it just comes unasked, uninvited, from the ether.
Seems I have a choice to buy into it, act upon it, or otherwise.
Yet I seem to be heading in a direction before I even become aware--its an after thought that I chose to do it.

All "happens" in the formless ----then takes on form--in the here and now--it manifest.

To have a beginning and therefore an end, there has to be duality.
However the sages will tell you that you are the unborn---the baby is conceived then sometime after in the womb, spirit or whatever name you give it, will be the in-dweller.
What you are has no beginning or end.

There can be implied movement with a circle ---Im thinking of the cycle of reincarnation.

All this said--spiritual pursuit is actually very practical---meditation and other practices are health giving--lowers stress --blood pressure etc.

The Serenity prayer kind of sums it up.

"God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change
Courage to change the things I can.
Wisdom to know the difference"

Love Chris

Ps a major understanding which releases a lot of fear is the knowing that I am not the body.

[ZooLife]

Change is an overlay of that which is changeless. It only gives the appearance that everything changes..............that is the serenity.

Change no matter if physically done or for whatever reason will always be a part of the active artistic tapestry.

Change is a grand design but a design nevertheless.

Construction (beginning) and Destruction (ending), integral in said active artistic tapestry.

[greybeard]

Advaita Today ◦ Western Masters of Nonduality

Published on Jun 14, 2014

~ ♥ ~

~ Namasté ~

This excellent compilation of interviews is made by Stillness Speaks. They also provide a second part that can be bought by you. Please support them with a donation or purchase one of their products: http://www.stillnessspeaks.com/donate/
http://stillness-speaks.hostedbywebst...

Enjoy!

Om Shanti

~ Blessings to You ~






http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmhgBOPN64g

[Wind]

The intellect can never "get" enlightenment, because it is beyond the mind. It is a higher state of being.


"The statement ”to be” is to be ”in time” or ”in timelessness.” Most limit its meaning to the first phrase only. But the more enlightened know that the higher possibility has been realized by some."

"If grace had to depend solely on human merit, if it had to be fully worked for and earned, it would no longer be grace. It really depends on the mysterious will of the higher power. But this is not to say that it comes by the caprice of the higher power. If a man puts himself into a sufficiently receptive attitude, and if he applies the admonition ”Be still and know that I am God,” he is doing something to attract grace."

"Once he is able to push the door open, he finds himself in a place where the light is heavenly, the peace indescribable, the feeling of divine support immeasurable."

"If a man could withdraw sufficiently from his ego to stop letting its interests and desires overpower him, he would thereby let peace come to triumph in his heart. The true paradise, the real heavenly kingdom, which has been postponed by an ignorant clergy to the post-mortem world, thus becoming far-off and elusive, is in fact as near to us as our own selves, and as present as today. If we are to enter it, we can and must enter while yet in the flesh. It is not a time or place but a state of life and a stage of development. It is the ego-free life. The ego is not asked to destroy itself but to discipline itself. The personal in a man must live, but only as a slave to the impersonal. These two identities make up his self."

~ Paul Brunton

https://scontent-ams3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13096334_789000331236534_8600856744714174658_n.jpg?oh=dc54634d02606557f3425bd76a32b351&oe=58033FE8

[greybeard]

Living in Nonduality - The Hard Questions
Published on May 3, 2014

Gary Weber's comments on the panel discussion, "Filling in the Details" at the Science and NonDuality Conference in Doorn, the Netherlands, May 28 - June 2, 2013. Moderator - Jeff Warren, other panelists, Lisa Cairns and Tim Freke. Complete video @ http://youtu.be/er-0SE-7JRE.

Topics covered included what happens w/nondual awakening as far as compassion, functioning, changes in personal relationships, sexual desire, synchronicity, fears, surprises, attachments, emotions, surrender, intimacy, control, free will, thoughts, helping others, etc.

This is discussed in the blogpost "Living w/an absolute perspective in a relative world...three different perspectives" @ http://happinessbeyondthought.blogspo....

Useful links for more information:

Website: http://www.happiness-beyond-thought.com
Blog: http://happinessbeyondthought.blogspo...
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/gudakesh...
MP3 Downloads: http://happiness-beyond-thought.com/d...
Soundcloud Channel: https://soundcloud.com/gary_weber
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gary.weber.528




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

[Mark (Star Mariner)]

Everything has a beginning and so an ending from the premise of this imaginary break.

We could possibly stand still on the circle, or even regress, but I don't see a break existing. A break would imply a dissolution of our spiritual being. But we cannot ever 'not exist', we are always moving ahead gaining more and more experience, whatever we are and wherever we're going.

What we are is Spirit, expressing itself in physical form. I personally believe that Spirit is eternal; it has always been and always shall be. That, I guess, is the circle.

If I'm thinking in my mind that 'enlightenment' has no beginning or end, perhaps it is better termed as 'progression' in this context. In spiritual progression, from immaturity to maturity, the path is constant. The drive is to achieve more and more perfection, without ever attaining the wholeness of it. There is no ultimate summit of perfection (no break in the circle and no top of the circle), because we cannot become God.

[betoobig]

You can not become what you already are
Much love

[Mark (Star Mariner)]

You can not become what you already are
Much love

Too true! sorta, I think, because we are kinda down here in these incarnations! Part of our (lower) selves is down here anyway – but we are not God in the way I mean God. The word 'God' (which I incorrectly used) is far too limiting a label for what I was driving at. The words God and particularly Love (interesting they mean the same thing!) are perhaps the two most used and abused words in the spoken (English) language - to the extreme detriment of both, so something of their meanings have been corrupted over history - or at least diluted heavily.

I believe there are spiritual consciousnesses throughout the higher spheres that we cannot even conceive. As below, so above - there are hierarchies in place in all the kingdoms of creation. They, as divine spirits, are merely on a far higher rung of the spiritual ladder than we are. I also think there must be an ultimate, pinnacle consciousness beyond them, on top of everything. This is what I refer to as 'the Source' (as opposed to the All-That-is, which is The Creation that sprung from the Source.)

That's the difference, though it is just semantics. What I meant was we cannot "be God", or the Universe itself. We can be in them, of them, a part of them, and we can experience a state of All-ness, and oneness with all things - but we cannot literally 'be God', until we reintegrate with Source at the very end of our spiritual journeys.

That said, there is a school of thought in my thinking - and in one or two things I have read over the years that hints at this, and it could blow anyone's mind) - there is something else...something (a plan, a reality) greater than, and beyond God (the Source).

[ZooLife]

We could possibly stand still on the circle, or even regress, but I don't see a break existing.

Hence the 'imaginary' break.

[betoobig]

You can not become what you already are
Much love

Too true! sorta, I think, because we are kinda down here in these incarnations! Part of our (lower) selves is down here anyway – but we are not God in the way I mean God. The word 'God' (which I incorrectly used) is far too limiting a label for what I was driving at. The words God and particularly Love (interesting they mean the same thing!) are perhaps the two most used and abused words in the spoken (English) language - to the extreme detriment of both, so something of their meanings have been corrupted over history - or at least diluted heavily.

I believe there are spiritual consciousnesses throughout the higher spheres that we cannot even conceive. As below, so above - there are hierarchies in place in all the kingdoms of creation. They, as divine spirits, are merely on a far higher rung of the spiritual ladder than we are. I also think there must be an ultimate, pinnacle consciousness beyond them, on top of everything. This is what I refer to as 'the Source' (as opposed to the All-That-is, which is The Creation that sprung from the Source.)

That's the difference, though it is just semantics. What I meant was we cannot "be God", or the Universe itself. We can be in them, of them, a part of them, and we can experience a state of All-ness, and oneness with all things - but we cannot literally 'be God', until we reintegrate with Source at the very end of our spiritual journeys.

That said, there is a school of thought in my thinking - and in one or two things I have read over the years that hints at this, and it could blow anyone's mind) - there is something else...something (a plan, a reality) greater than, and beyond God (the Source).

Agree 200%
We are small pieces of all that is trying to find our way back, beutifull ride.
Thanks so much for this conversations, love you all.
Juan

[ZooLife]

You are not thought
Thought is all

(hear what I am not saying)


http://izquotes.com/quotes-pictures/quote-wait-without-thought-for-you-are-not-ready-for-thought-t-s-eliot-57008.jpg

[greybeard]

Mooji - Buddha at the Gas Pump Interview

Uploaded on Nov 20, 2011

Also see http://batgap.com/mooji/

Anthony Paul Moo-Young, known as Mooji, was born on 29 January 1954 in Port Antonio, Jamaica. In 1969, he moved to the UK and he is presently living in Brixton, London. Anthony worked in London's 'West end' as a street portrait artist for many years, then as a painter and a stained glass artist, and later as a teacher at Brixton College. For a long time, he was well known as Tony Moo, but is now affectionately known as Mooji* by the many seekers and friends who visit him.

Mooji is a direct disciple of Sri Harilal Poonja, the renowned advaita master, or Papaji, as his followers call him. In 1987, a chance meeting with a Christian mystic was to be a life-changing encounter for Mooji. It brought him, through prayer, into the direct experience of the Divine within. Within a short period, he experienced a radical shift in consciousness so profound that outwardly, he seemed, to many who knew him, to be an entirely different person. As his spiritual consciousness awakened, a deep inner transformation began which unfolded in the form of many miraculous experiences and mystical insights. He felt a strong wind of change blowing through his life which brought with it a deep urge to surrender completely to divine will. Shortly after, he stopped teaching, left his home and began a life of quiet simplicity and surrender to the will of God as it manifested spontaneously within him. A great peace entered his being, and has remained ever since.

For the following six years, Mooji drifted in a state of spontaneous meditation oblivious to the outer world he formally knew. During these years, he lived almost penniless but was constantly absorbed in inner joy, contentment and natural meditation. Grace came in the form of his sister Julianne, who welcomed Mooji into her home with loving kindness, and afforded him the time and space he much needed to flower spiritually, without the usual pressures and demands of external life. Mooji refers to this period of his life as his "wilderness years" and speaks touchingly of a deep feeling of being "seated on the Lap of God". In many respects, these were far from easy times for Mooji, yet there is no trace of regret or remorse in his tone as he recounts these years. On the contrary, he speaks of this phase of his life as being richly blessed and abundant in grace, trust and loving devotion.

In late 1993, Mooji travelled to India. He had a desire to visit Dakshineswar in Calcutta where Sri Ramakrishna, the great Bengali Saint, had lived and taught. The words and life of Ramakrishna were a source of inspiration and encouragement to Mooji in the early years of his spiritual development. He loved the Saint deeply but as fate would determine, he would not go to Calcutta. While in Rishikesh, a holy place at the foothills of the Himalayas, he was to have another propitious encounter; this time with three devotees of the great advaita Master Sri Harilal Poonja, known to his many devotees as Papaji. Their persistent invitation to Mooji to travel with them to meet the Master made a deep impression on him. Still he delayed the prospect of meeting Papaji for two whole weeks, choosing first to visit Varanasi, the holy city.

Continued on http://batgap.com/mooji/



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

[greybeard]

Deepak Chopra - Buddha at the Gas Pump Interview
Published on Nov 5, 2013

Also see http://batgap.com/deepak-chopra

Deepak Chopra, MD, serves as the Founder and Chairman of the Board for The Chopra Foundation.

As a global leader and pioneer in the field of mind-body medicine, Deepak Chopra transforms the way the world views physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social wellness. Known as a prolific author of more than seventy-five books with twenty-one New York Times best sellers in both fiction and non-fiction, his works have been published in more than thirty-five languages.

Chopra's medical training is in internal medicine and endocrinology and he is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians, and a member of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. He serves as the Co-Founder and Chairman of the Board of The Chopra Center for Wellbeing, Founder of The Chopra Well on YouTube, Adjunct Professor at Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, Adjunct Professor at Columbia Business School, Columbia University, Senior Scientist with The Gallup Organization and board of directors, HESA. Time magazine has described Dr. Chopra as one of the top 100 heroes and icons of the century and credits him as "the poet-prophet of alternative medicine.

https://www.deepakchopra.com


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EW8X63TZ2-c

[Chester]

Living in Nonduality - The Hard Questions
Published on May 3, 2014

Gary Weber's comments on the panel discussion, "Filling in the Details" at the Science and NonDuality Conference in Doorn, the Netherlands, May 28 - June 2, 2013. Moderator - Jeff Warren, other panelists, Lisa Cairns and Tim Freke. Complete video @ http://youtu.be/er-0SE-7JRE.

Topics covered included what happens w/nondual awakening as far as compassion, functioning, changes in personal relationships, sexual desire, synchronicity, fears, surprises, attachments, emotions, surrender, intimacy, control, free will, thoughts, helping others, etc.

This is discussed in the blogpost "Living w/an absolute perspective in a relative world...three different perspectives" @ http://happinessbeyondthought.blogspo....

Useful links for more information:

Website: http://www.happiness-beyond-thought.com
Blog: http://happinessbeyondthought.blogspo...
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/gudakesh...
MP3 Downloads: http://happiness-beyond-thought.com/d...
Soundcloud Channel: https://soundcloud.com/gary_weber
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gary.weber.528




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

Yes.... and...

Tim's response starts at 10:27

er-0SE-7JRE

[Catsquotl]

Lol,
No time to watch now. But finding it funny that the 4 of them are all trying to sit cross legged on a chair..

With Love
Eelco

[Wind]

You know, many people,
they are very tired. They are tired.
If you are physically tired, it is a good tired.
It is experienced as a sweet exhaustion.
Your body needs it—fine.
But many are more psychologically, mentally
and emotionally exhausted.
That comes from thinking too much,
from being too much of a person.
Everyone is suffering from person-poison.
Too much person. You are too personal in the life.
That is how you become tired.
Look at this body.
This body is said to have all kind of things,
maybe it should not even be here right now.
But some power is moving within it,
and so the body does not get tired?
Why?
Because:
Everything is for Satsang.
Everything is for Truth.
Everything is for Love.
Everything is for you, actually.
Everything is for God.

~ Mooji

[greybeard]

Interview with Stephen Wolinsky from Science and Nonduality Anthology Vol.2
scienceandnonduality



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

[Heart-2-Heart]

That makes sense... Thank you Chris

H2h

[greybeard]

That makes sense... Thank you Chris

H2h

Hello old friend.

Stephen Wolinsky has been around a long time, so there is value and added credibility to his opinion.

After all the years of reading the books, listening to the D.V.D's going to hear the "enlightened" etc I still cant claim to know anything for sure.

Much Love Chris

[Zampano]

Wow...this has to be one of the best Videos I saw on this topic of Enlightenment!!!
Very good reminders, pointers and advice.
Thank you

[greybeard]

The trouble is in the words.
In order for words to make sense memory is involved--concepts--beliefs arise automatically.
At least Im now aware that thoughts just arise--I am not the thinker of them except when I have a conversation with the thought, thats my input to the thought that arrives all by itself.

My understanding is that enlightenment happens almost by accident--you can become accident prone though through spiritual practice.
You cant make it happen--deserve it etc.
Its by the Grace which is always available--the sun shines on all plants but not all flower to their full potential.

Divine Romance the book by Yogananda is a good read.
The heart fluttering---The Divine playfulness--the hide and seek.
The joy that comes sometimes during meditation or all by itself--the occasional dark night of the soul --the feeling of being abandoned--all alone.

Quite a few sober alcoholics are drawn to the spiritual path and several videos on this thread are by recovering enlightened alcoholics
Performing alcoholics and recovering ones too have a strong "need" to be loved and feel all alone--empty--the sense of loneliness is extreme
The positive side is that this is a great motivator on the "spiritual search"

I can testify that this is true in my case.

Chris

Here is an article that points to this.


The Likely Cause of Addiction Has Been Discovered, and It Is Not What You Think
01/20/2015 03:20 pm ET | Updated Jan 25, 2016

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/johann-hari/the-real-cause-of-addicti_b_6506936.html
.

[greybeard]

Anita Moorjani News Letter



<newsletter@anitamoorjani.com>


On February 2nd, 2006, I came face to face with death. I was suffering from end-stage cancer, and had taken what I thought was my very last breath of physical life. As I stood at death's door, my physical body entered a deep coma. I soon realized that I was able to exist outside my physical being and was aware of everything going on around me, watching my limp and lifeless body as it lay on a hospital bed dying from the lymphoma that had ravaged it for the past four years.

It feels surreal when I visit that memory now, but I have recently been thinking about it a lot while navigating through these turbulent times.

Imagine if you will, that you have shed your physical body, yet you continue to exist. If you have no physical body, then you have no gender and no race because our reproductive organs and skin form part of our biology. So if you have no gender or race, then who or what are you?

When I faced my true self—the self beyond the physical body—as I was on my deathbed, I realized that who I am is someone far, far greater than my body, my color, my gender, my race, my religion, my culture or even my beliefs. Who I am is pure consciousness; pure love; pure God. In fact, call it whatever you feel comfortable with, but it is nothing but pure, amazing goodness. And this is who we all are, at our core. Yes, it's true! It's where we come from, and it's where we'll someday return when we finally exit this world. It doesn't matter who we are in this life or what we have done; even if we are someone who has fatally shot another. At our essence we are all love.

"If it's so beautiful there," you may ask, "then why did you come back?" I chose to come back because I wanted to share a piece of the love that I felt in the other realm with everyone here because I knew people here had forgotten who they truly are. I was anxious to remind everyone of who they are and where they have come from. And I actually believe that's what we all intend to do when we come here. Every single one of us. Our intention when we arrive—that is, when we are born—is to share our love with the entire world, because at its core, our essence is love.

And from that perspective, it really didn't seem to matter whether we were black, white, brown, blue or green! It felt like we wanted to come here to celebrate our differences!

So what happened? How did we get so lost? How did we become so violent? Where did we go wrong? There are many, many reasons, and I don't even want to pretend that I know why everyone does what they do. However, I do believe that fear plays a huge part in it. Fear drives people to do all kinds of crazy things; from hoarding money (perpetrating greed); tripping people up in order to get ahead of them; fearing those who are different and acting out in violence towards them; taking revenge against what we don't like, thereby causing us to become what we are taking revenge against; etc.

I've realized that the only way I can change my life—and hopefully contribute towards making the world a better place—is to remember who I truly am. I am love. And when I remember that I've come from love and will return to love, and my only responsibility here in this world is to share that love, then I can more easily act from a place of love and share what I have come here to share. I also have to remember that every single person in the world is also pure love, at their core, and they too came here with the same intentions. Where it's the hardest to give love is usually where it's needed most.

We live in a world where many people are in pain; and people who hurt, hurt other people. The way to eliminate hurt, fear, anger and violence is not through more fear and hatred. The only way to eliminate hatred is to increase love.

Much Love,
Anita

[greybeard]

Science and spirituality---and there's more--smiling.

Stephen Wolinsky - Neuroscience, Free Will & The Self Illusion


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

[greybeard]

The challenge with this thread is that the contributors are more or less in agreement so discussion is a rare thing.
It seems to me that sages give you what you are ready to hear most times--particularly the Western ones.
Eckhart Tolle whom I got a lot from --tends to give what gets you through the moment and thats important.

The Stephen Wolinsky videos are very direct--no room for misunderstanding--you either believe him or you dont.

Mooji I love as there is the balance between love and Truth.

Dr David Hawkins was very clear that the "individuals" endeavors to raise their "personal" consciousness raises the consciousness of all.
A rising tide lifts all boats.

With love Chris

[Wind]

"It was one of those lovely summer evenings when I sat far into the night: first, enjoying the sunset, then, the darkening landscape, lastly, the lights alone. The curtains remained undrawn: I could not bring myself to attend to waiting work, and shut out this fascinating scene. For it drew me away, held me, melted me. The "I" was going.

I love these long lingering summer sunfalls. Then I can put duties aside, turn from the activities which life amongst men imposes, and go with all this beauty into Mystery Itself."

~ Paul Brunton

https://scontent-amt2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/t31.0-8/13613516_822431494560084_1046578948701844128_o.jpg

[greybeard]

OM Mantra with Theta binaural beats - Sacred Chanting for Deep Meditation

Full high quality MP3 version available from http://www.relaxmeonline.com/relaxati...

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Brainwave Entrainment Technique: Binaural beats.
The vibration produced by the sound of Om chanting is said to correspond with the original vibration that first arose at the time of creation. It is an auspicious mantra that has been used for deep meditation throughout the ages. This sublime OM Mantra recording lasts for a full hour and will allow you to really absorb yourself in the mystical sound of Om chanting. It's a wonderful way to experience a deep state of meditation.

Click here now for FULL HIGH QUALITY ONE HOUR MP3 VERSION.
http://www.relaxmeonline.com



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApINbGVpYEs&index=2&list=PLpp6U6DWwjfbTQsyRKrVuODcqpXKk_Jmz

[greybeard]

Tree - Buddha at the Gas Pump Interview

Published on Jul 14, 2016

Also see https://batgap.com/tree/

“The spiritual journey does not consist in gaining what a person does not have, but in dissipation of ignorance concerning himself and life, and the growth of understanding which begins with spiritual awakening. To find God is to come to one’s own self.” - Avatar Meher Baba.

No longer the person with its conditioning and history, here now there is only this and the overall feeling is “I don’t mind.” No fear, no push, a great emptiness that is also a rich and all-pervading fullness. Here there is silence, peace and an exquisite sense of joy. Here it feels so light there is no distance, ‘marinating in the self.’ It is as if nothing is happening here yet happening graciously unfolds.

To look back at the dream, the necessary mistaken identity, it seemed like so much happened. Personhood was such psychological suffering. Separation, a feverish, fearful struggle, always restless, dissatisfied, looking outside for love and fulfillment. Now peace, and love reside here.

I have spent thirty years with Avatar Meher Baba in deep devotion. Baba has administered his kiss and his kick, expertly unraveling the ego identity. Longing for the truth and with nothing more to express in this life, I knew I was going to die, not sure if it was the body or the ego, I completely surrendered.

Shortly after, whilst watching Mooji on the net, he pointed, and I said with total conviction, “I am That”. In that recognition I hysterically and uncontrollably laughed for hours. When I could hardly breathe from the laughter and I asked God to help me, the laughter only escalated. The funniest thing, the divine joke was that I knew I had always been that.

I love Meher Baba and Mooji - the brightest reflections of the true self I know. It is quiet here as I experience the bliss and love of the self.

Interview recorded 7/9/2016



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cpBC0kWYqQ

[Cidersomerset]

After being on the mainstream fear pages for many hours regarding Nice
and other 'Dark cloud ' memes time for break......

Listening to the Om frequency in #5441 to 'declutter' ...LOL

Click here now for FULL HIGH QUALITY ONE HOUR MP3 VERSION.
http://www.relaxmeonline.com

[greybeard]

After being on the mainstream fear pages for many hours regarding Nice
and other 'Dark cloud ' memes time for break......

Listening to the Om frequency in #5441 to 'declutter' ...LOL

Click here now for FULL HIGH QUALITY ONE HOUR MP3 VERSION.
http://www.relaxmeonline.com

Good to see you here Cider
What you bring to Avalon is of great value.
A break from that relative reality is I feel beneficial.
The Om meditation is definitely relaxing.
Its a question of balance.
The situation in France is beyond belief--how anyone can believe acts like this are pleasing God---I just don't get.
Enough said

Much love
Chris

[Cidersomerset]

Its weird synchronicity that happens after all this time , suddenly your thread was
highlighted to me ( I have seen it hundreds of times ) This time something
said 'click' I started looking at the vid but I was not in the mood for that. Then I
noticed the Om chant and thought that's what my non-physical is telling
me play to recharge my battery...LOL

That's my story and I'm sticking to in...

Love your work Chris even if I do not pop in to visit as much as I should.
Your threads and others bring Spiritual 'Ying' to others 'yang' in the sometimes
not to pleasant field we study. Not sure if 'Ying & Yang ' the right way round but
you know what I mean , peace Steve...

Now back to the trenches......before I go.


Make the World a Better Place by Completing the Inner Journey

By David on 11 July 2016 GMT The Awakening The Matrix What is Reality?

By WakingTimes July 8, 2016

Make the World a Better Place by Completing the Inner Journey

https://www.davidicke.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/cosmic-eye-universe-peace.jpg

Dr. Stewart Bitkoff, Contributor
Waking Times

Nasrudin was now an old man looking back on his life. He sat with his friends in the
tea shop telling his story.

“When I was young I was firey-I wanted to awaken everyone. I prayed to Allah to
give me the strength to change the world.

In mid-life I awoke one day and realized my life was half over and I had changed
no one so I prayed to Allah to give me the strength to change those around me
who so much needed it.

Alas, now I am old and my prayer is simpler. ‘Allah,’ I ask, ‘please give me the
strength to at least change myself.”**


‘According to Sufi tradition, man/woman is the meeting point between heaven and
earth and is created with a spiritual destiny. Within each person there is the
capacity to create, make decisions and destroy. These aspects or abilities reflect
Higher attributes and man/woman’s birth right is to rule a vast, personal spiritual kingdom.

Humanity is evolving to a higher state of consciousness. This is both individual and
collective- as a race of people. This evolution is purposeful and guided so it may be
attained. To help safeguard this Plan there is a hierarchy of servants and teachers
who work on many levels. Collectively, humanity has a potential and destiny. Many
of the holy books speak about this potential. These references are part allegorical
and part literal.’

Read more: Make the World a Better Place by Completing the Inner Journey

http://www.wakingtimes.com/2016/07/08/make-the-world-better-place-completing-inner-journey/

[bodhii71]

Nirjun John was a featured guest on Batgap and IMHO represents probably one of the most clear voices in unravelling the knot towards liberation. He offers weekly Satsangs on Saturdays, the link is on the website, free of charge. It does require DL Zoom software which is used for group meetings.

http://www.nirgunjohn.com

[greybeard]

Here you go bodhii71
Thanks for the link.
Love Chris

nirgun john - Buddha at the Gas Pump Interview
Published on May 3, 2016

Also see https://batgap.com/nirgun-john/

nirgun john was born John M. Grenafege. The name “nirgun”, means ‘without attributes’, and was given to John by his students.

John began his spiritual search at age 16 after he was given the book “Be Here Now” by his older brother. At age 19, he spent a brief period with Transcendental Meditation (TM). In the following years, he learned many other meditation techniques from various teachers. John later took a monthly correspondence course from Siddha Yoga. As Muktananda had passed, John was initiated by Gurumayi, whom he still loves and honors as his Guru.

This initiation gave his practice a new momentum, and shortly afterwards he discovered the teachings of Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj, whom he also considers his Guru. Following his Awakening, nirgun john spent four years in silent meditation until Realization. A small group of friends then convinced him to start holding public Satsangs.

nirgun john does not affiliate himself with any particular group or religion, but instead he transmits spontaneously to anyone open to receive.

nirgun currently lives in San Francisco, where he has formed ‘A Bridge to Awareness’. nirgun john welcomes online and personal meetings with all spiritual seekers. All are welcome to attend the free online Satsangs he offers through the ‘A Bridge to Awareness’ website.

“My deepest wish is for you to realize the Truth of your Being. Know that the search
and the one who searches are imaginary.
When the mind is still, you are on the threshold. Abide there until The Only
reveals and the imaginary evaporates.”
nirgun john

Book: Sitting at the Open Door of the Heart



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUiOVkq0K7A

[Enola]

I like Manichaeism, or that's maybe the religion I relate to the most.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manichaeism

It was a form of Gnosticism or rebellion against traditional Christianity, similar to the Cathars and Albigenses, which I've always liked, but is known as "heresy". Peter Deunov revived the faith for a while in Bulgaria, but is hardly known and not really acknowledged.

Like most of the real masters, especially there are few European masters known, like they've all been wiped from history.

[lake]

Evening Chris, it would help me greatly to have your viewpoint on the nature of this, well lets say planet.

I am 'stuck' in a limitation of perception decreed by self and require another vantage point of refraction so as to further loosen my bounds.

Once the skin deep beauty is seen for the carnival that it is....and the true horror of being here waltz’s into comprehension.......then why continue to describe the jaunt as 'good' or 'pure'?

In other words, even removing humankind from any equation, why is the overwhelming nature of this earth horrendously vile?

ta mate

[greybeard]

Evening Chris, it would help me greatly to have your viewpoint on the nature of this, well lets say planet.

I am 'stuck' in a limitation of perception decreed by self and require another vantage point of refraction so as to further loosen my bounds.

Once the skin deep beauty is seen for the carnival that it is....and the true horror of being here waltz’s into comprehension.......then why continue to describe the jaunt as 'good' or 'pure'?

In other words, even removing humankind from any equation, why is the overwhelming nature of this earth horrendously vile?

ta mate

Hi Lake
simple answer is "I don't know"
I could give you a whole menu of plausible answers.

Best bet--most positive, is that this is the University of consciousness evolution.
When we personally evolve enough we don't reincarnate anymore.

Here is seems we can choose to show compassion when there are earth quake victims --or mistreated animals--and on it goes, the opportunities are endless
Many opportunities to forgive--live and let live--etc
From another perspective, the chance to discover my true nature--Self realization.

I agree that the earth is a violent place--animals in the main only kill for food, they are part of evolution too.
The Lion shall lie down with the lamb.

I look at what happens in my life and now I have a lot to be thankful for--it was not always that way.
The bad stuff took me to absolute despair--suicidal--then I surrendered to the God of my understanding and a weight was lifted from me.
Through AA.
Im not of any religion
Life is now manageable through the normal ups and downs.

Hope this is helpful.

Love c
.

[Foxie Loxie]

Beautiful answer, Greybeard! It seems we each have to go through our "stuff" in life that we might learn what we need to learn & then help others along the way with a sympathetic, understanding ear. :bearhug:

[greybeard]

O, raise up thine eyes to eternal sky
In thy bondage strike out to be free
Hush the whispering voice of the infinite why .... ....... With "I am and I was and I ever will be."


Lake your signature I suspect contains the answer

Just let it be--it is as it is--why? is not necessary.
A redundant question---you are not though.

Love c

[lake]

I thank you my friend (which after 5 years of reading your posts, I think I can call you) for an honest and non-egotistical answer. There are few who, when in your position, would state that they do not know.
Thank you.

My signature can only address the imposed fear which is felt by the mass of the thought form described as 'walking through the shadow of death'.

I will not let it be.
I will it to be known.
For I have to.

There is a reason for the 'dream' of this 'dream' and I do not feel it is of good intentions!
So again....why is the nature of this world so very enclosed in death and fear?

I drink mate.......and smoke....even more at 23 I decided never to have children as I thought it wrong to bring another into this place!
Why did I decide that?
Well its a question. But its vastly more important to ask WAS IT MY DECISION?

[lake]

By the way....you did ask me in!


The challenge with this thread is that the contributors are more or less in agreement so discussion is a rare thing.

Can only cross the threshold whence once asked in.......:boink:

[greybeard]

By the way....you did ask me in!


The challenge with this thread is that the contributors are more or less in agreement so discussion is a rare thing.

Can only cross the threshold whence once asked in.......:boink:

Yes I did lake and you are welcome.
I did write a reply but it vanished with the press of a wrong button.

As before I cant claim to know or give you a definitive answer.
Different levels suggest different truths , valid at each place--context.
Bit like to be or not to be that is the question.
Free will or not?
I could share times when through a series of coincidences things just happened seemingly out with my intention or control.
I could also quote times that I seemed to be master of my own destiny.

Speaking for myself I cant see that I have that much free will---I can fight against what has happened but that has already become history seconds ago,
or I can say--It is as it is

Conditioning, genes, environment, belief systems, culture--the works affect decisions that we seem to make freely.

I dont see death as a problem or shadows for that matter.
Have had to face the strong possibly of dying on several occasions---nearly drowned twice--burst spleen in a sledging accident--alcoholism--burst ulcers--

Those things strengthened me--gave me spiritual muscle---paradox is I had to surrender for that to come about.
Nothing to fear but fear lake.

Have to go ---sleep calls--but we can continue tomorrow if you wish.

Love Chris

[greybeard]

lake this may or may not be helpful.
Not necessary to meditate to this--its the words which I believe point to peace of mind for me..

C


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

[joeecho]

.......why is the overwhelming nature of this earth horrendously vile?


A similar question is why read or watch horrendous things? With a vivid imagination people can actually experience these horrendous things within their mind and body, Why put oneself through that? Is it because they know there is an escape should it be too much for them? On occasion when I have watched a particularly diabolical movie alone and in the dark no less, I have actually paused or stopped a movie that was getting the best of me. It's silly to do because it's 'just' a movie and a book is 'just' words. It goes to show you how powerful the mind is.


The world is like a ride at an amusement park, and when you choose to go on it, you think it's real, because that's how powerful our minds are. And the ride goes up and down and round and round and it has thrills and chills and it's very brightly colored and it's very loud. And it's fun, for a while.

Some people have been on the ride for a long time, and they begin to question: 'Is this real? Or is this just a ride?' And other people have remembered, and they come back to us and they say 'Hey! Don't worry, don't be afraid -- ever -- because... this is just a ride.' -- Bill Hicks

In short, artistic license.

[lake]

O, raise up thine eyes to eternal sky
In thy bondage strike out to be free
Hush the whispering voice of the infinite why .... ....... With "I am and I was and I ever will be."


Lake your signature I suspect contains the answer

Just let it be--it is as it is--why? is not necessary.
A redundant question---you are not though.

Love c

Hello bud,
upon further consideration....Im going to go with the above!

enough is actually enough.......I know through experience that I create the reality around me and that it is quite possible that the greater landscape is the creation of the combined collective will.
If it is not, then it is a creation of a totally deranged part of awareness....which I shall just have to hope.......is not me!
But at some time I will also learn the truth of that, upon my leaving this holiday camp for the 'psychopathic walking dead'!

There is no fear my friend, there is only waiting.

Have fun soothing the tourists. Till next time
lake

[betoobig]

So many things to share.
I am so glad to see new faces in town , this thread is a path on its own.
Pachtwork zone, my life, yours too, is a pachtwork... Now our pachtworks macht... Unite..love you
Now, Chris my friend, my brother, my teacher , my guide ... What about this actual flow? Can you feel it? How you manege?
Please , anyone feel free to coment.
Enlightment now.... How does it feel? Just now...
The best momentum for enlightment... If i can.. Who can't? If....
Thank you, love you
Just breath

[greybeard]

So many things to share.
I am so glad to see new faces in town , this thread is a path on its own.
Pachtwork zone, my life, yours too, is a pachtwork... Now our pachtworks macht... Unite..love you
Now, Chris my friend, my brother, my teacher , my guide ... What about this actual flow? Can you feel it? How you manege?
Please , anyone feel free to coment.
Enlightment now.... How does it feel? Just now...
The best momentum for enlightment... If i can.. Who can't? If....
Thank you, love you
Just breath

Your friend, your brother yes, teacher no.
I share what is teaching me and it gives me great pleasure to do so.

Way back I promised my self that if enlightenment happened I would resist the temptation to be a teacher.
I have seen what can happen-- the fall from grace--another term is crash land.

Now I suspect there is no choice in this--it either happens or it does not.
By that I mean whatever happens is Self flowing through the channel that is now free of obstructions. (egoless)
I may have a bit to go.

I don't want to give the wrong impression.
I could easily drop the word I/me from posts but at the moment it would not be true.

I am affected by the vicissitudes of life but to a much lesser degree--and for a shorter time.
If "Self realisation" does not occur thats ok as the teachings have made acceptance of the down turns much much easier.
In the main intellectually "I get it" that is not the same as being it.

So my friend life goes on much the same as ever---there is gratitude where there was not much before.
There is the realisation that "Of myself I do nothing"

Much love
Chris

[greybeard]

Advaita is Vedanta Part 3
Published on Jun 17, 2016

Excerpts from Part 3 of the Advaita Is Vedanta Trilogy represents 20 of the 50 Older and Less Frequently asked questions. Advaita is Vedanta Part III begins upon returning from India in 1982 and teaching Kashmir Shaivism and Self-Enquiry. Part 3 concludes with the Absolute Prior to Consciousness, The Absolute Prior to Awareness and The Absolute Prior to the Absolute Nothingness.
Once again, as you watch this YouTube or read the book please keep tucked away somewhere;

“All that is heard, (or that is about to be read, seen or heard)
is non-existent”
- Shankara

Much Love,
Your Mirage Brother
Stephen (Narayan)

This YouTube and all books and tapes are an offering at the feet and come through the Grace of my Guru and Mentor Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj. May his Grace and Love blanket your heart and mind.

Nisargadatta Maharaj Ki Jay!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4JzomejobU

[greybeard]

Advaita is Vedanta

This video/talk really is as deep as it goes.
There is the usual paradoxes but Stephen is very clear--you have the choice--Lol --to believe him or not.

Happy viewing, if you have not already--I will keep watching till it all sinks in--hopefully.

Much love
c

[greybeard]

Richard Miller - Buddha at the Gas Pump Interview

Published on Jul 18, 2016

Also see https://batgap.com/richard-miller/

Richard C. Miller, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, author, researcher, yogic scholar and spiritual teacher who, for the past 46 years has devoted his life to integrating western psychology and neuroscience with the ancient nondual wisdom teachings of Yoga, Tantra, Advaita, Taoism, and Buddhism. Richard is the founding president of the Integrative Restoration Institute, co-founder of the International Association of Yoga Therapists, founding editor of the peer reviewed International Journal of Yoga Therapy, and a founding member and past president of the Institute for Spirituality and Psychology.

Author of iRest Meditation: Restorative Practices for Health, Healing and Well Being, The iRest Program for Healing PTSD, and Yoga Nidra: The Meditative Heart of Yoga, Richard also serves as a research consultant studying the meditation protocol he’s developed (Integrative Restoration ~ iRest Meditation), a modern adaptation of an ancient yogic form of meditation, researching its efficacy on health, healing, and well-being with diverse populations that include active-duty soldiers, veterans, women rescued from human trafficking, youth and college students, seniors, the homeless, and the incarcerated, with issues such as sleep disorders, PTSD, traumatic brain injury, chronic pain, chemical dependency, and anxiety, as well as research on iRest’s efficacy for enhancing resiliency, well-being and compassion. Richard leads international trainings and meditation retreats on the integration of enlightened living into daily life. For information visit http://www.irest.us.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dSfGF0y8Ltc

[Enola]

"Our task is to bring the spirit down to earth. This is why you must use your meditations and prayers to beg for this light and visualize it, visualize this spirit, this divine force, descending into you and impregnating every cell of your being. One day, when you have worked at this over the years, you will sense that heaven is within you, that light is within you, that love is within you. When this day comes you will find that it is much easier to help other people and awaken them to this reality. But if, through a false understanding of spirituality, you remain barren—a blank page—you will be no good to anyone. The spirit must be allowed to descend!"

[Mark (Star Mariner)]

You are not really that person, the one in the mirror, the one that you think you are.

http://images2.cafemomstatic.com/images/user/gallery/1243519_1244298310_med.jpg?imageId=12846498

You are merely experiencing that person in order to live. You are merely living as that person in order to experience. But neither are you the experience. You are simply having an experience - in order to learn from it.

[joeecho]

You are not really that person, the one in the mirror, the one that you think you are.

http://images2.cafemomstatic.com/images/user/gallery/1243519_1244298310_med.jpg?imageId=12846498

You are merely experiencing that person in order to live. You are merely living as that person in order to experience. But neither are you the experience. You are simply having an experience - in order to learn from it.

http://slodive.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/thumbs-up-symbol-pictures/thumbs-up-wallpaper.jpg

That would include the environment in the reflection as well, though that is implied 'me' thinketh.

(excellent post, Star Mariner!)

[greybeard]

Advaita is Vedanta
This is the first of three videos.
I am finding these three to be very helpful.

Love c



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oNZ4zjeHZAg

[Guish]

The one who is good at shooting does not hit the center of the target."

[greybeard]

There are free books and a meditation on this website

http://www.stephenhwolinskyphdlibrary.com/downloads.html

Spirituality is!!
"Finding out who you are"

Thats it, nothing else.

The quote is taken from the video below
There is so much in this video---I am on my third watching so far.
Much love
Chris


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oNZ4zjeHZAg

[Mark (Star Mariner)]

War.

War begets war, and cannot ever beget peace. Even in truce, when the gunfire dies, war rumbles on in men's souls. For all they have seen, and suffered, or been forced to do for 'patriotism', it does not end. A man may leave the battlefield, but the battlefield never leaves the man.

It continues to play out, because it is energy, and energy has to go somewhere - often recycled as karma. Karma on a grand scale, forever manifesting in other, later wars, which beget yet other wars after that, ad infinitum.

The very first war of man, which began however many thousands of years ago, is still in circulation in the hearts of men today. It has been observed throughout history, because it is the same war, the abused/abuser pattern continuing to revive itself, re-spawn itself, as the conflict rages on...and on...and on.

[Chester]

Advaita is Vedanta

This video/talk really is as deep as it goes.
There is the usual paradoxes but Stephen is very clear--you have the choice--Lol --to believe him or not.

Happy viewing, if you have not already--I will keep watching till it all sinks in--hopefully.

Much love
c


Except also he says there's no free will. Something I also heard from Mooji. Something I do not like to hear.

Hummmm.

?

[Chester]

But also... there is no "I" so who is it that does not like to hear it?

Hummmm.

[lake]

As far as I comprehend it and I have not watched the vid, the idea that there is freewill is correct but only in regard to our future.
In our seemingly PREsent state of awareness which we wrongly conclude to be the now, we have no freewill as we are but the actors playing parts.
In a greater scale, we are, each one of us, the stage its self and the author.
This stage created by us as author is the place of freewill but it is not this now, it is in that which we perceive as our past.
This is how manifestation can and does work....think a thought, the stage reflects that thought back into our understanding of a past which we then act out in our considered present awareness.

You are The Stage my friend.......not the actor

[greybeard]

Different levels Sam

It appears there there is freewill at the level of duality and there are consequences for action.

However at the highest level there is no Ultimate no Absolute--or any other descriptive word--One singular can not have experience---to -be compared--there has to be more that one for anything to apply.

Eckhart Tolle said --"There was never anyone there to do anything to you."

We are in the illusion--"Indra's dream" The cosmic dance--Consciousness at play--whatever.

Physics has discovered that the universe pulses in and out of existence many ---times a second-- so do you.

Any description is not it.

Nisargadatts--"All pointers point to nothing"

Took me time to get my head round it --kind of---Ive listened to all three videos and that brings it together and also what I have read else where.

Not professing that I know--just a glimmer of understanding.

One without a second.
It takes at least two to have free will.

Much love
Chris

[Chester]

I get it

wait, I just lost it by calling it "it."

wait, I cannot lose what isn't.

haha "uuughhhh"

:wink:

[Guish]

There's nothing to get. Just be.

[greybeard]

Sam, Its all linguistics--but --you are that which can not be spoken of.

Like Guish said "Just be"

John Lennon quote
"Nothing is real--nothing to go on about"

Much love
Chris

[Chester]

I get it

wait, I just lost it by calling it "it."

wait, I cannot lose what isn't.

haha "uuughhhh"

:wink:

I was expressing my confusion.

I am now expressing that all this leaves me... very depressed.

so, I am being depressed at this moment of hitting the submit button.

[greybeard]

I get it

wait, I just lost it by calling it "it."

wait, I cannot lose what isn't.

haha "uuughhhh"

:wink:

I was expressing my confusion.

I am now expressing that all this leaves me... very depressed.

so, I am being depressed at this moment of hitting the submit button.

There is nothing to be depressed about Sam
Ive never seen an unhappy Mystic--the love just shines out of Mooji --Eckhart Tolle has a good relationship with his wife Kim.

The Self Realised have a different perspective---we cant get it till we get it

Much love
Chris

[Chester]

wow

what holds samskaras so tightly

lying

all is clouded by desire (and thus why we lie to ourselves)

start at 1:14:30

the 17 faces of lying (that never get acknowledged)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oNZ4zjeHZAg

wow

[betoobig]

Hello Sam.
I know "no free will" sounds like "no control"... that supossed "control" is false and it has to be surrended...
In one experiment a man was placed inside a scaner and had two bottons, each in one hand. He had to push either botton any time he conciously wanted. The results showed that before the man choosed left or right, conciously, the scan showed diferent "lights" in the brain telling which bottons the man was about to choose.
So the awareness of "nothing is under control" should set you free, completly liberate and ready to enjoy the ride, not depressed.
Much love

[greybeard]

wow

what holds samskaras so tightly

lying

all is clouded by desire (and thus why we lie to ourselves)

start at 1:14:30

the 17 faces of lying (that never get acknowledged)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oNZ4zjeHZAg

wow

Great Sam you are working your way through the videos.
A lot of the statements are really eye opening and useful
I started to identify why I had been doing things---that gives freedom.

Much love
Chris

[greybeard]

Hello Sam.

I know "no free will" sounds like "no control"... that supossed "control" is false and it has to be surrended...
In one experiment a man was placed inside a scaner and had two bottons, each in one hand. He had to push either botton any time he conciously wanted. The results showed that before the man choosed left or right, conciously, the scan showed diferent "lights" in the brain telling which bottons the man was about to choose.
So the awareness of "nothing is under control" should set you free, completly liberate and ready to enjoy the ride, not depressed.
Much love

Very true my friend

I know a person who is very controlling--well in my opinion God sent an illness where it was necessary to monitor daily blood and other things--tablets to take, weight to watch. there is the thought by the person that the illness is being controlled and other perspective is that the illness is controlling and limiting the person.
This could be be said of me when I was a performing alcoholic--so I have compassion for the person.

I had to surrender to my Higher Power to get my life back and what seems like choice.

If you think ""God does not know exactly what you are going to do before you do it, think again.

God wrote the play etc

Love C

[Chester]

Advaita is Vedanta

This video/talk really is as deep as it goes.
There is the usual paradoxes but Stephen is very clear--you have the choice--Lol --to believe him or not.

Happy viewing, if you have not already--I will keep watching till it all sinks in--hopefully.

Much love
c


Except also he says there's no free will. Something I also heard from Mooji. Something I do not like to hear.

Hummmm.

?

vaVHRRxUpog

[Shadowman]

I was expressing my confusion.

I am now expressing that all this leaves me... very depressed.

so, I am being depressed at this moment of hitting the submit button.

Still riding the dream rollercoaster Sam?

It is your individuality or person/mind/ego that get's "it", loses "it", get's confused and get's depressed.

All mental states, feelings, appearances, concepualizations, perceptions (including the concept of a separate perceiver/experiencer) are unreal as "separate" phenomena, yet paradoxically real as the non dual Self. Just like all appearances/characters on a movie screen are unreal/temporary as separate things, while remaining real as the unchanging screen which allows them to appear. Or, all gold ornaments are unreal as forms, but real as gold, metaphorically speaking.

Allow, but don't identify with, (or act upon) anything that is perceivable or conceptual, in your regular practice, and slowly the power of Maya will lessen it's grip.

Capisce?
tim

[Guish]

It takes a lot of time and practice to become the moment and yet be detached from it.

[Chester]

Some "argue" that detachment leads to sociopathic behavior (void of empathy).

I don't wish to become a sociopath that sits there while others suffer where an action I might take could prevent that unnecessary suffering (even though I know its all illusion).

Example - 4 years ago my son (age 18 at that time) was quite troubled and committed a crime. I was living in another country but moved back to Texas to be with my son and to help him such that he got a probation instead of going to prison for 10 years. Interestingly he received the probation, met a great girl, now has a daughter and has lived a clean, healthy life.

The illusion that has made the biggest positive difference for him is that he became a Christian in jail while awaiting the judges decision (prison or probation).

If I had been detached, I would not have experienced the feelings I did which were the reason I acted as I did. If he had not fallen for the illusion of Christianity (and note: I do not "do" religion), I am unsure he would have made the changes he made.

I see all these discussions as simply other forms of illusion with an intellectual twist that attempts to get around the paradox.

I am still in the camp of "both/and" ala Tim Freke.

And I am certain there will be more suffering. I am hopeful there will be more amazing joy.

I am saying, yes, I agree it's all illusion. And I enjoy it more than I am sick of it.

[greybeard]

In the interest of accuracy Sam the spiritual term is non attachment which is a world of difference from detached.
Feelings from what I have heard are all the more powerful
However I very much get what you are saying---enlightenment without love would be meaningless.

Much love
Chris

[Chester]

It takes a lot of time and practice to become the moment and yet be detached from it.

This is what I reacted to.

[Guish]

Is there enlightenment without love?
Being detached in spiritual terms is very different from detachment in layman terms which means not caring.
When I was at Uni, I helped a Friend complete her project by staying with her the whole day without expecting anything.
When my ex said, she wanted to let go of me, I bought her flowers and wished her good luck. Damn, I felt like Batman on that day.
As a manager, I still Ensure the work of others get done and leave my chores last.
I'm less emotionally involved but I do everything out of love. There's no longer the need to have a grip.
Last night, I woke up at 1 a.m, gave the little guy his Medecine, gave my Wife a massage because of her back and thee was no trace of tiredness. Only bliss and I wasn't emotionally drained. Maybe, our concept of love changes with time Sammy. Your story is inspiring Brother.

[joeecho]

It takes a lot of time and practice to become the moment and yet be detached from it.

It's easy to become the moment when one isn't it.

That is why one is able to move from moment to moment while remaining unmoved.

[Guish]

It takes a lot of time and practice to become the moment and yet be detached from it.

It's easy to become the moment when one isn't it.

That is why one is able to move from moment to moment while remaining unmoved.

Sure. You are everything and nothing at the same time.

[joeecho]

The bubble (everything) embodies the gas (nothing), pop it matters not.

In the realm of duality, the bubble takes great exception to being popped.

For bubbles, a pin is a WMD.

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/dd/40/72/dd40729770e86b49489bd21cf3ce002c.jpg

As above, so below

[petra]

As above, so below

So simple isn't it :)

This world seems like one giant metaphor sometimes

[joeecho]

As above, so below

So simple isn't it :)

This world seems like one giant metaphor sometimes

When is one not imagining it?

[greybeard]

As above, so below

So simple isn't it :)

This world seems like one giant metaphor sometimes

Indeed
Welcome to the thread petra.
Much love
Chris

[joeecho]

When one is finished popping every bubble of the imagination, that too will be of the imagination.

So, should you take a pin to your own bubble, who is the one popping it? And so the cycle continues.......

My materialization in all its apparent grandeur turns out to be a sud. ;)

http://s2.quickmeme.com/img/7d/7d11aadd9032cd3c17c14ced5e22d6f68c98637cc66252b98b9fe3709f34a492.jpg

[petra]

When one is finished popping every bubble of the imagination, that too will be of the imagination.

So, should you take a pin to your own bubble, who is the one popping it? And so the cycle continues.......

My materialization in all its apparent grandeur turns out to be a sud. ;)

LMAO! Oh my!!! Don't get stuck in a loop hole, ha ha ha

Great quote by the way, here's another:

"I stopped and thought, why does the frisbee get bigger, the closer it gets? And then BAM! It hit me" -Stuart Francis

[greybeard]

Tom Das - Buddha at the Gas Pump Interview

“The point of this teaching is the realization of total and complete freedom, in which we are free from suffering.”

I had my first conscious spiritual awakening aged 18.

Everything was seen to be one, the sense of personal self fell away and I had a deep sense that I truly was not the limited being that I commonly took myself to be. This experience was short-lived and further fueled my seeking. I wanted to try to re-experience it. I think because this experience happened in the context of reading a book, I subsequently developed a voracious appetite for reading spiritual texts. I read books on everything such as on Buddhism, Zen, Taoism, Mystic Christianity, Vedanta, Dzogchen, and the core texts of each, as well as many self-help and new-age type books.

I also had a keen interest in science and mathematics and my studies took me along this route in school, eventually leading me to study medicine and become a doctor. I later got married and now have two amazing and lovely children. Alongside my studies, career and home life, the spiritual seeking continued for 15-20 years.

Now the sense of a ‘me’ living a life and the dissatisfaction that fueled my spiritual seeking have both disappeared, leaving behind an ordinary life ‘being lived’ or living itself. I call it Freedom.

—–

Tom is a medical doctor who lives in London UK with his wife and 2 children. He holds regular meetings in London and on Skype to share this wonderful teaching with anyone who is interested.

To learn more about him and his teachings see http://www.tomdas.com.




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THZKy3QB3gM

[petra]

As above, so below

So simple isn't it :)

This world seems like one giant metaphor sometimes

When is one not imagining it?

Haha I feel like saying Indeed but Greybeard just said that :D

Something of note I suppose, I had trouble writing the word "freewill" today... it came out like "frewill", and I couldn't help but laugh because I was talking about being able to move my hands with just the power of my mind :) Kindof ironic.... in a foolish facepalmey sortof way!

Those darn E's keep disappearing on me