People travel to wonder at the height of mountains, at the huge waves of the sea, at the long courses of rivers, at the vast compass of the ocean, at the circular motion of the stars; and they pass by themselves without wondering. — St. Augustine
The ancient Greek aphorism “Know Thyself” was inscribed in the forecourt of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi. Uncovering who I really am has become the surprise of my life. After years of introspection, observation and self inquiry, I believe I’m beginning to realize who I really am. This is new to me, and it’s exciting!
A New Definition of Self Awareness
I’ve found that by the process of removing non-essentials from my awareness, deep forgiveness of myself and others, and long periods of silent mindfulness meditation, I’ve learned that there is nothing but awareness, aware of itself. I know this sounds abstract, but we are spiritual in nature, and when we seek to know real truth about ourselves, words cannot easily convey meaning. After all, all life is subjective.
Letting Go!
So what do I do with this new-found self awareness — that I am? First, this knowledge brings great relief. Maybe it’s just the beginning, but I feel like I have come to the end of my search. I no longer feel the need to read about spirituality, investigate, wonder, or ask myself why I am here. The universe has conspired to bring me to this simple point of existence, and I’m now more surrendered to the process and loving it!
I have become aware of a sort of unity consciousness in wholeness. My identification with ego has loosened to such an extent that I no longer have a sense of my old identity. I am free to exist more fully inside my quiet mind, feeling joy, peace and surrendered to all that is in front of me, where the observer becomes the observed, free of expectation, judgment and attachment.
Old concepts of worry, fear, and suffering all seem irrelevant in the face of my new eternal view. Even the idea of death seems like simply walking from one room to the next. Don’t get me wrong, even from this lofty perspective, where suffering seems to be non-existent, I am still able to view and be subjected to the cause and effects of life, and still capable of feeling pain and sorrow.
The Power of the Mind: More Consciousness = More Responsibility
With clarity comes greater responsibility. I notice my thoughts and desires become more instantly manifested. I have become a co-creator. As a result, I must be more attentive to my thoughts, desires and motivations. I must be ever vigilant to ensure that these thoughts and desires come from a God-centered motivation, rather than an ego-centered motivation. Awareness begets more awareness it seems.
Surely this transformational journey from an ego-centered awareness to a God-centered awareness must be why we’re all here. We are all bound for this glory, and I think more of us are stepping up to this realization with the help of authors like Eckhart Tolle and others.
I believe that this knowledge will begin to exponentially gather critical mass, and result in a collective cleaning and refinement unparalleled in the history of the planet.
Ultimate Healing Through Highest Service
By simply looking within, I believe that spiritual seekers do more for humanity than anyone in the world. When I look within, and honestly look at myself, I also learn about others. I realize that I share common struggles, likes, dislikes, wants, needs and desires. A great compassion comes over me. I can no longer find it reasonable to criticize, judge or form opinions about my friends, family and the world. This brings me yet to a quiet space within.
Think Outside the Box and Learn How to Build Your Self Esteem and Confidence
Perhaps a new definition for self esteem is an acknowledgment and understanding that we are Gods in a sea of Godness. We are the center of the universe. As Swami Rama Tirta states: “There is but one reality, and that reality is Myself”. To love ourselves first is how we learn to love. And forgiving ourselves is the highest priority, because love is at the heart of creation.
Being selfish is just the first step toward joy. We all seek to protect our joy, because we’re afraid to lose it. When we look closer, our true nature is nothing but joy. How can we lose something that is inherently ours?
What is Empowerment?
Empowerment is accepting that we are in our right place now. Growing at our own pace, flowing with the current, rather than swimming upstream, applying our God-given talents, awakening to our natural creative, and intuitive selves, can be a new beginning toward uncovering a brand new you.
We are essentially individualized units of pure consciousness representing the Godness of our being. I hope we have the courage to grasp and acknowledge this fact. When we do, we can begin to take responsibility for it, and help humanity speed toward the greater understanding that we’re all in this together
