Have you noticed that an unexamined mind is a self-centered mind? If you’re unaware of the thoughts you’re thinking, you will automatically believe them to be true—and there you are, fully engaged in the story of me, me, me.
Without realizing it, you’re constantly thinking about what you need, what you want, and what you should or shouldn’t be doing or feeling.
The “I” that you define yourself as is the reference point for everything, and all your thoughts are about your personal agenda.
- Am I okay?
- Am I getting what I need?
- Am I doing the right thing?
- Am I safe?
- I want
more.
- I think he shouldn’t have said that.
- In my opinion, she should be doing it differently.
- It’s his fault, not mine.
Not only is this inner self-talk exhausting, it creates an agitated, unhappy mind.
If you identify with all that the mind is saying and it becomes the sole focus of your attention, how do you feel? Agitated and unhappy.
Let’s consider what might be possible beyond the habit of this self-focused thinking. Instead of engaging with a mind filled to the brim with personal thoughts of fear and dissatisfaction, consider the radical proposition of being empty.
What if you were empty of these personal thoughts? How? Take them in a big heap and put them
aside…because they’re not serving your peace and happiness.
And what remains? You’re here…pure, pristine, and empty, with a mind infinitely open like the sky. Completely relaxed…breath breathing itself…
You might think you
need a personal self with all of its preferences and opinions. But here’s the truth: you don’t.
Life goes along just fine whether or not the mind is chattering. And when you’re empty of the personal self, your experience will be so much more peaceful.
But don’t take my word for it. Find out in your own experience. Next time you’re lost in suffering, realize how much your attention is feeding the story of me…me…me. Subtract the “me” and all that goes with it…and you’re one with the seamless flow of life.
Become familiar with the story of the separate self and how it wends its way
into your mind and body. Then empty it out. Pour out the personal needs and strategies that aren’t serving. Throw away the needless opinions, demands, and expectations.
Then experience yourself as fully here, deeply quiet, and available to life’s unfolding…
Sending much love...🧡
Gail
Note: You are welcome to join our next Coming Home Together online gathering on Wednesday, April 17 from 9-10:30am Pacific. Come and immerse
yourself in loving community as we open to: Relationships: A Path to Trauma Healing. Please click here for details and registration.
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