|
Have you ever wondered why conflict seems inevitable with certain people in your life, especially family members? No matter how much you grow, they still treat you the way they always have—like the child, the troublemaker, or the person they once knew. This disconnect often leads to frustration, misunderstandings, and even emotional pain. The Root of Conflict: A Perception Gap Conflict often arises when who others think we are no longer matches who we have become. They interact with an outdated version of us, while we expect them to see and respect the person we are today. For example, a parent may still treat their adult child like they are incapable, simply because that’s how they remember them. Meanwhile, the child—now grown and independent—resents being treated that way. The result? Repeated arguments, emotional triggers, and a cycle of frustration. This dynamic isn’t just limited to parent-child relationships; it happens in friendships, romantic relationships, and even workplaces. The version of you that people hold in their minds is often based on past interactions, and unless something forces them to update their perception, they continue responding to you in the same old ways. Why People Struggle to See Our Growth People are naturally resistant to change—especially when it comes to relationships. Familiarity feels safe, even if the dynamic is unhealthy. When someone sees you differently, it forces them to question their role in the relationship. For example, a controlling parent might feel less needed if they acknowledge that their child has become independent. A long-time friend may feel threatened if they see you growing in ways they haven’t. A romantic partner may resist change because they fear losing the dynamic they once knew. Without realizing it, people may try to pull you back into old patterns not out of malice, but out of their own fears and insecurities. How We Keep Ourselves Stuck in Old Dynamics Even when we’ve grown, our reactions often reinforce the past version of us. If you’ve always argued with a parent who belittles you, reacting defensively only confirms their belief that you are still the same. If a friend still treats you like the reckless person you used to be, and you get frustrated instead of calmly correcting them, you feed their outdated perception. This is why it’s refreshing to meet new people. They see us as we are today—without the baggage of past interactions. But this doesn’t mean old relationships are doomed. They can be rekindled if both parties become aware of these dynamics. How to Shift the Relationship Dynamic 1. Understand Their Perception • Instead of assuming they are intentionally disrespecting you, recognize that they simply don’t see your growth yet. • Ask yourself: “What version of me do they see?” and “Why might they struggle to update that perception?” 2. Communicate Your Growth • You can’t expect people to just know you’ve changed. Show them through actions and words. • Example: Instead of saying, “I’m not a child anymore,” demonstrate it by handling situations with maturity and confidence. 3. Stop Reacting Like Your Old Self • When you react emotionally in a way that matches their outdated view of you, you reinforce it. • Instead, respond as your present self—with calmness, confidence, and clarity. 4. Give It Time • People don’t change their perceptions overnight. Consistently embody the new version of yourself, and eventually, they will have no choice but to recognize it. Final Thoughts Conflict in relationships isn’t always about who is right or wrong—it’s often about perception gaps. Your growth is real, but the people in your life may not see it yet. Instead of expecting them to automatically adjust, take responsibility for helping them see the new you. The more aware we are of these dynamics, the more power we have to break the cycle and create healthier, more fulfilling relationships.
1 Comment
 I personally believe that life purpose is something we remember from a spiritual perspective rather than something we create. Of course, this depends on a person’s beliefs, and their viewpoint may differ. For me, I remembered my purpose when I discovered my passion—helping and motivating others to reach their full potential. I believe my purpose was already determined before I was born, but it remained dormant or was gradually unfolding as I matured. When the time was right, I became aware of it, understood it, and eventually began embodying it. This process has been gradual, but now my purpose is very clear to me: to learn, to experience, and to serve others. I believe there was a reason for me to come back to Earth, meaning my purpose was already determined before birth. Once my soul defined this purpose, it had to manifest it into reality—into a physical form—so I was born with this purpose written inside me. But here’s the key: It’s not that you are looking for your purpose. Your purpose has always been guiding you. We often think of purpose as something we must actively seek, as if it’s hidden somewhere outside of us. But in reality, our purpose is always present, subtly directing us through our experiences, passions, and even challenges. The process of life itself is designed to help us remember and align with it. An Analogy: The Meeting of Forgotten Purpose Imagine we all have a condition—not Alzheimer’s, but a type of forgetfulness where we remember bits and pieces, just not everything clearly. We find ourselves in a meeting but don’t remember why we’re there. The entire time, we’re trying to recall the purpose of the meeting and our role in it. We try different things to spark our memory, hoping to find something that feels right, but nothing fully clicks. Since our memory is unreliable, we rely on feelings and intuition. Deep down, we sense we’re in the right place—we planned to be here—but we’re not truly fulfilling our purpose because we don’t fully remember what we came to do. Others in the meeting are in the same situation. Some might remember more than others. Together, we start piecing together clues, helping each other recover fragments of our memory. As more people remember, the purpose of the meeting becomes clearer, and soon, things start moving in the right direction. The key to feeling at peace isn’t just remembering the purpose—it’s fulfilling it. Once we recall why we’re here, the anxiety and frustration fade, giving us clarity. Instead of spending all our time just trying to remember, we can focus on doing what we came here to do—contributing, making a difference, and even helping others remember their purpose too. For Spiritual and Non-Spiritual Perspectives For those on a spiritual path, the journey of purpose looks like this: Higher purpose → Manifested → Living and remembering our higher purpose → Fulfilling our purpose. For those who do not hold spiritual beliefs, purpose can still be deeply meaningful: Nothing → Something → Lost/Confused → Finding a purpose → Fulfillment. Even without believing in a higher purpose, one can still enter “the meeting” with a reason—to learn, to contribute, and to experience life. There’s nothing wrong with not believing in spiritual destiny. The key is long-lasting fulfillment, rather than chasing fleeting goals. Why Does Purpose Seem to Change? Why is it that sometimes we feel certain about pursuing something, only to realize later that it no longer feels right? Because your goal was never meant to last forever. It may have even been aligned with your larger purpose, but only as a fraction of what you were meant to accomplish. The universe guides you into doing something, then out of it, so you can continue fulfilling your greater purpose. Mind vs. Soul: The Illusion of Purpose Purpose exists for the mind at the human level—it needs direction to continue its journey. But the soul is already living its purpose, patiently progressing according to a greater plan. The struggle comes because the mind, limited by ego and human perception, cannot fully comprehend the soul’s deeper purpose. In many cases, the mind’s pursuit of purpose originates from the ego. The ego seeks identity, validation, and significance. It wants to feel special, to achieve something, to leave a mark. This is why people sometimes chase goals that later feel empty—because they were ego-driven rather than soul-aligned. But when the mind finally recognizes the soul’s true purpose, the two align, and purpose is naturally fulfilled. In other words, the moment you realize your true purpose, you are already living it. Whether you feel like you’ve accomplished or fulfilled your purpose is simply the mind trying to measure and understand something that was always in motion. A Lesson from 50 First Dates In 50 First Dates, Adam Sandler’s character, Henry, can be seen as a representation of God/Spirit Guide or an awakened friend trying to help someone (Lucy) recover her memory—just like how an awakened soul helps those who are still “asleep” remember their true purpose. Henry knows that Lucy will likely forget everything by the next morning, yet he has no expectations or frustration. Instead, he patiently works with her, bringing joy into her life each day. He meets her where she is, without force or pressure. Lucy, despite her memory loss, still experiences happiness in her day-to-day life. And Henry, through his unwavering commitment, lives with a sense of purpose every day. This mirrors the journey of awakening—some people forget who they are and why they’re here, but those who remember can gently guide them, not by forcing remembrance, but by being present, patient, and leading with love. In the end, whether one remembers or not, the key is to live with joy and purpose in each moment. “The world exists because of you, not the other way around.” - FeelaSoulphy  The smoke rises, weightless, free, A silent dancer upon the breeze. Unrushed, unbound, it twists and sways, A fleeting form, yet never fades. I watch—no, I feel—its flow, The same force moves through me, I know. No difference, no divide, no line, Just energy shifting, shape divine. The smoke sees me as I see it, No boundary drawn, no moment split. The watcher and the watched are one, A dance of light, a song unsung. And when the incense burns to ash, Its body fades, but not its path. It rises, merges with the air, Returning home, still everywhere. So too, we live, so too, we burn, A flicker bright, then we return. Not lost, not gone—just something new, The source awaits, the source is you. Imagine watching incense burn. The solid stick gradually turns to ash, releasing a delicate stream of smoke that twists and turns, rising, dispersing, and finally fading into the air. It’s a quiet, mesmerizing process—one that mirrors our own existence more than we realize.
In that moment, as you watch the smoke drift, there is an unspoken truth: you are observing it, and it is observing you. Not with eyes, but with presence. This is the essence of consciousness—awareness experiencing itself in infinite forms. The Observer and the Observed One of the most profound realizations in both spirituality and quantum physics is that observation changes reality. In quantum mechanics, the Observer Effect suggests that particles behave differently when they are being watched. This means that consciousness itself plays a role in shaping reality. Now, consider this: if you, as consciousness, are observing the smoke, and the smoke is also an expression of the same universal energy, then what separates you from it? In truth, nothing. The same energy flows through both of you, just expressed in different forms simultaneously. The incense burns, transforms, and eventually disappears—but its essence doesn’t vanish. It simply returns to its source, just as we do. Energy Never Dies—It Transforms Science tells us that energy cannot be created or destroyed; it only changes form. This is known as the First Law of Thermodynamics. The smoke that rises from the incense does not cease to exist—it merges back into the air, becoming part of something greater. Now, apply this to yourself. Our bodies, like the incense stick, burn through time. Eventually, the form dissolves, but the energy—the consciousness that we are—does not disappear. It returns to the source, to the infinite field of existence, only to take on new forms again. This understanding changes how we see life and death. Instead of fearing the end, we recognize it as a transformation, not a disappearance. How This Awareness Can Change Our Daily Lives 1. It Shifts Our Perspective on Death – Just as smoke is never truly lost, neither are we. Death is not the end, but a return. This brings peace in moments of loss. 2. It Deepens Our Presence – When we see that everything is a fleeting expression of the same energy, we cherish the present moment more. We become less attached to form and more connected to the essence of life. 3. It Reminds Us of Our Interconnectedness – If the same energy flows through everything, then separation is an illusion. The tree, the wind, the people around us—all are different expressions of the same universal presence. 4. It Encourages Flow and Acceptance – Smoke moves freely, adapting to whatever space it enters. When we adopt this fluidity in life, we resist less, suffer less, and align ourselves with the natural rhythm of existence. Conclusion The incense burns out, but the smoke does not die. It returns to its source, waiting to take shape again. And so do we. By recognizing that we are both the observer and the observed, we awaken to a deeper truth: consciousness is infinite, ever-changing, and always present. Life is not about clinging to form, but about embracing the beauty of transformation. Next time you watch smoke rise, pause for a moment. Feel its movement. See its freedom. And in it, recognize yourself.  Shealor Lake Trail by Silver Lake, Pioneer, California Ancient philosophers and sages dropped wisdom that still hits today—but let’s be real, if they had Twitter, they’d probably say it differently. Here’s how timeless truths sound in modern slang. Wisdom is wisdom, no matter the era. 1. Ancient Wisdom: “A wise man speaks because he has something to say; a fool speaks because he must say something.” – Plato Modern Translation: “Real ones drop knowledge, clowns just make noise.” 2. Ancient Wisdom: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” – The Golden Rule Modern Translation: “Be cool, get cool back. Be trash, get dragged.” 3. Ancient Wisdom: “He who conquers himself is the mightiest warrior.” – Confucius Modern Translation: “Master your own mess before you flex.” 4. Ancient Wisdom: “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu Modern Translation: “You ain’t gonna make it to the top if you don’t start walking.” 5. Ancient Wisdom: “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” – Socrates Modern Translation: “The more you know, the more you realize you don’t know sh*t.” 6. Ancient Wisdom: “You reap what you sow.” – Biblical Proverb Modern Translation: “Karma is a b*tch!” 7. Ancient Wisdom: “Beware the barrenness of a busy life.” – Socrates Modern Translation: “If you’re grinding 24/7 but still feel empty, you’re just running in circles.” 8. Ancient Wisdom: “To love and be loved is to feel the sun from both sides.” – David Viscott Modern Translation: “Real ones vibe both ways.” 9. Ancient Wisdom: “A fool and his money are soon parted.” – Proverbs Modern Translation: “Blow your bag on dumb sh*t, end up broke real quick.” 10. Ancient Wisdom: “Silence is a source of great strength.” – Lao Tzu Modern Translation: “Real Gs move in silence. Loud ones just want attention.”  Sunrise at Communications Hill, San Jose, California, USA Society often pushes us to be the best-to reach the top and stay there. But what happens when the title is lost? The truth is, you don’t need to be the best at what you do, as long as you give your best. Being the best is temporary. No one stays at the top forever, and you shouldn’t want to. Progress depends on people surpassing each other. If you attach your identity to being the best, you set yourself up for suffering when the inevitable happens. Look at top athletes-world records never last forever. Someone always comes along and breaks them. If an athlete’s entire identity is built around their record, losing it can feel like losing themselves. The Cost of Being the Best Many high achievers struggle with this reality. Here are two famous examples: 1. Michael Phelps - The most decorated Olympian of all time, yet after the 2012 Olympics, he fell into deep depression. He later admitted he felt lost without swimming, realizing that chasing gold medals had become his entire identity. 2. Tyson Fury - After reaching the pinnacle of boxing by defeating Wladimir Klitschko, he spiraled into depression, alcoholism, and even contemplated suicide. He later shared that his suffering came from having no purpose beyond being “the best”. These examples show that when success is tied to external validation, losing it can be devastating. The Power of Giving Your Best Instead of trying to be the best, focus on trying your best. This shift changes everything:
The irony is that those who always give their best often become their best-but without the fear of losing it. The Journey vs. The Destination Success is often seen as a destination, but in reality, it’s the journey that matters. Being the best is about reaching the top and proving something to the world. Giving your best is about continuous growth and proving something to yourself. The process of discovering your full potential is the real goal. If you only care about being the best, you stop learning once you get there. But if you focus on always giving your best, you never stop evolving. Let Go and Surrender The world encourages us to chase being the best, but it misunderstands the real path to fulfillment. Success isn’t about holding a title-it’s about becoming the best version of yourself through relentless effort. Try your best and let the universe take care of the rest. Success comes and goes, but self-mastery stays with you forever.  A great teacher doesn’t need to explain what they know. They teach by their presence-by simply being. Likewise, a great student doesn’t depend on a teacher’s words to learn. Instead, they observe in silence and recognize the lessons hidden in everything. Take an apple, for example. To an ordinary student, it might be just fruit. But to a great student, the apple is a profound teacher. It shows patience in how it ripens, simplicity in the joy it offers, and abundance in the seeds it carries. Inside this single apple are the seeds to produce the next apple trees and potentially thousands more apples just like it. It’s a reminder that growth and possibility are always present, even in something seemingly small. The apple also reminds us of the deep interconnection we share with nature. It serves humans by providing nourishment, animals by feeding and sustaining them, and even insects through pollination. This cycle of giving and receiving reflects the interconnectedness of all life. The apple teaches us how each part of creation serves and supports the greater whole, offering abundance not just for itself but for all. In short, a great teacher doesn’t have to teach, and a great student doesn’t have to be taught. The difference lies in awareness. A great student recognizes that every moment, every person, and every object is a potential teacher. Their awareness turns the world into a classroom. Thus, the saying goes, “When the student is ready, the teacher will appear. When the student is truly ready, the teacher will disappear.” This happens not because of the teacher, but because of the student’s own awareness of the lessons they recognize for themselves. Ultimately, a great student becomes their own teacher. They no longer need external guidance because their heightened awareness allows them to learn from life itself.  A "Solid" rock at Pinnacle National Park, California, USA Have you ever wondered how something as solid as a table or a rock can be made up of tiny particles and energy? Science tells us that what we perceive as solid is far from what it seems—and some theories even suggest our reality might be like a hologram. Let’s explore this fascinating idea in simple terms and touch on one of the most famous experiments that shakes up how we view reality: the double-slit experiment and quantum entanglement. Why Does Everything Feel Solid? Here’s the mind-blowing truth: everything in the universe is made of atoms, and atoms are about 99.999999% empty space! If they’re mostly empty space, why do things feel solid? It’s all about forces and energy: • Atoms are surrounded by electrons, tiny negatively charged particles. When two objects come into “contact,” their electrons repel each other because like charges repel. This creates an invisible force that keeps things from passing through each other. Imagine trying to push the negative ends of two magnests together-they resisit each other, creating an invisible force. The same thing happens at the atomic level when you touch an object! • What we perceive as “solidness” is really the sensation of this electromagnetic repulsion. So, solidity is an illusion created by energy interactions at the atomic level. Why Do Some Things Feel More Solid Than Others? Not everything feels equally solid because: 1. Density: Some materials, like metal, have atoms packed tightly together, creating more resistance when you touch them. Less dense materials, like foam, have more empty space between atoms, making them feel softer. 2. Bonds: Strong atomic bonds, like those in diamonds, make objects feel harder, while weaker bonds, like in rubber, allow objects to bend and feel less rigid. The Double-Slit Experiment: Does Reality Depend on Observation? Now let’s dive into an experiment that challenges how we understand reality: the double-slit experiment. 1. The Setup: • Imagine firing tiny particles (like electrons or photons) at a wall with two slits. • If no one observes them, these particles behave like waves, creating an interference pattern on the wall behind the slits. This pattern suggests that the particles travel through both slits simultaneously as a wave. 2. The Twist: • When scientists observe which slit the particle goes through, the interference pattern disappears. Instead, the particles behave like tiny objects, going through one slit or the other. 3. The Implication: This experiment suggests that the act of observation changes the behavior of particles. Reality at the quantum level doesn’t “solidify” into one outcome until it is observed. In other words, our perception plays a role in shaping reality itself! Quantum Entanglement: Everything Is Connected Now, let’s take it a step further with quantum entanglement. When two particles become “entangled,” their states are linked, no matter how far apart they are. If you measure one particle, the other instantly “knows” and adjusts its state accordingly—even if they’re light-years apart! Here’s what makes this fascinating: • This connection happens faster than the speed of light, defying our understanding of space and time. • It suggests that the universe is deeply interconnected at a fundamental level. In a way, quantum entanglement shows that distance is an illusion. Everything is part of the same unified energy field, and what happens to one part of the universe can influence another, no matter how far apart they seem. Is Reality Like a Hologram? Here’s where things get even more interesting. Some scientists propose that our entire universe might function like a hologram: • A hologram is a 3D image created from patterns on a 2D surface. • The holographic principle suggests that all the information needed to create our 3D universe is encoded on a 2D “surface” at the edge of the universe. If this is true, what we experience as solid objects, space, and time might actually be a projection of something deeper—an interplay of energy and information. What Does This Mean for Us? 1. Reality Is Deeper Than It Seems: Quantum physics shows us that what we perceive as “solid” is really energy and forces interacting. At the deepest level, reality is more like a web of possibilities. 2. Interconnection: Quantum entanglement reveals that we are all connected in ways we can’t fully see or understand. The energy flowing through you is part of the same universe that connects everything else. 3. The Illusion of Solidity: The world feels solid and separate, but at its core, it’s all vibrating energy fields and interactions. Many spiritual traditions describe this as maya, or the illusion of the material world. The Big Picture Our perception of the world is shaped by how our senses interpret energy and forces. Science tells us that solidity is an illusion, particles behave differently when observed, and everything in the universe might be interconnected through quantum entanglement. These ideas blur the line between science and spirituality, inviting us to explore reality’s mysteries. So, the next time you touch something “solid,” take a moment to reflect: you’re not just interacting with matter—you’re engaging with the energetic forces and connections that make up the universe. What do you think? Could the reality you experience be shaped by something far more mysterious than you’ve imagined?  Pinnacles National Park, California, USA What if God experiences life through us, and through our ability to love and forgive, we experience God? This profound idea redefines compassion, empathy, and forgiveness as not just moral virtues but spiritual practices that bring us closer to the divine. By embodying these qualities, we dissolve the illusion of separateness and open ourselves to the truth of oneness. God’s Infinite Experience If God is infinite and all-encompassing, then every experience—joy, sorrow, love, and pain—flows through God. Imagine God not as a distant observer but as an intimate participant, feeling the world through our eyes, hearts, and actions. This perspective explains the boundless forgiveness and compassion often attributed to God. How could a being that experiences life through all of us condemn? Judgment fades in the presence of deep understanding, and divine compassion becomes the natural response to human imperfection. Compassion: The Gateway to Oneness Compassion, empathy, and forgiveness are often seen as acts of kindness toward others, but they are also pathways to divine connection. When we forgive someone, we see beyond their actions and connect with their humanity. When we empathize, we transcend the boundaries of self and other, recognizing that their pain is not separate from our own. In these moments, we step into the divine flow of oneness. We aren’t just connecting with another person; we’re aligning with the essence of God. Experiencing God Through Action Many seek to understand God through prayer, meditation, or scripture. While these practices are invaluable, there’s another, often overlooked way to experience the divine: by embodying God-like qualities. • Compassion: When we offer compassion to others, we act as vessels of divine love. We create a space where others feel seen, understood, and accepted—just as God does for us. • Forgiveness: Forgiveness isn’t about excusing harm but about freeing ourselves from the chains of resentment. In forgiving, we reflect God’s infinite capacity for understanding. • Empathy: When we feel another’s pain as our own, we dissolve the illusion of separateness and touch the truth of our interconnectedness. By embodying these qualities, we don’t just know God; we experience God within and through us. Barriers to Divine Connection If compassion and forgiveness bring us closer to God, then what happens when we act without them? Judgment, anger, and resentment create a sense of separation—not just between ourselves and others but also between ourselves and the divine. These barriers are illusions, but they feel real because they’re rooted in the ego’s desire to protect its identity. The antidote is simple yet profound: practice compassion, even when it feels difficult. Forgive, even when it feels undeserved. In doing so, we don’t just heal relationships; we also heal the separation within ourselves and reconnect with God’s presence. Living as the Divine To live compassionately is to embody the essence of God. When we approach the world with love, empathy, and forgiveness, we become reflections of the divine. And in those moments, we don’t just sense God—we become one with God. So, the next time you feel compassion for someone, realize that you’re not just being kind; you’re touching the infinite. And when you forgive, remember that you’re stepping into the boundless love that flows through all of creation. By aligning with these divine qualities, we move closer to the truth of oneness—where God is not something we reach for, but something we are. A Call to Action Take a moment today to reflect: where in your life can you offer more compassion or forgiveness? Perhaps it’s toward a loved one, a stranger, or even yourself. Try to embody that divine quality and notice the shift it creates—not just in the world around you, but in your own heart. If this message resonates with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts or experiences. How have you experienced compassion as a spiritual practice? Let’s continue this conversation about oneness and divine connection in the comments below.  Land of Medicine Buddha, Soquel, California, USA “Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.” — Carl Jung "Pain is certain, suffering is optional." - The Buddha “What you are aware of, you are in control of; what you are not aware of is in control of you.” — Anthony De Mello Most people go through life unaware that they are suffering. They accept their struggles, frustrations, and negative emotions as “normal,” believing they are just part of life. But what if I told you suffering isn’t your natural state? What if you could break free, not by avoiding pain but by understanding it? Suffering is a state. Whether it’s a state of mind or being, it’s not permanent. Like any state, it can be changed—but only if you become aware of it first. The truth is, what we are aware of, we can control. What we are not aware of controls us. And for many of us, suffering has silently taken control, shaping our thoughts, actions, and relationships without our knowing it. Common Forms of Hidden Suffering Suffering isn’t always obvious. Sometimes it manifests as anger, jealousy, or self-doubt. Other times, it hides behind habits, expectations, or feelings of inadequacy. Here are some examples of hidden suffering: • Feeling uneasy when others succeed (comparison) • Holding grudges or clinging to the past (attachment) • Constantly worrying about the future (fear) • Struggling with self-worth (insecurity or failure) • Numbing yourself with distractions like alcohol, drugs, or excessive fun (escape) Even subtle feelings, like frustration when stuck in traffic or envy when a friend gets a new car, can point to deeper unresolved suffering. Why Awareness Matters The first step to overcoming suffering is awareness. When you recognize that you are suffering, you naturally start seeking understanding and solutions. In today’s world, there is no shortage of information or resources to help—what’s missing is awareness. Awareness allows you to pause and reflect before reacting. It gives you the power to ask yourself, “Why am I feeling this way? What’s really behind this emotion?” With awareness, you take back control from the invisible forces shaping your life. The Ripple Effect of Suffering Your suffering doesn’t just affect you—it impacts everyone around you. A single moment of anger, fear, or jealousy can ripple out and influence others in ways you may not even realize. When you heal yourself, you also heal the world around you. Imagine how different history might have been if individuals like Hitler had encountered compassion or healing in their formative years. Every action we take, every word we speak, has the potential to either spread suffering or alleviate it. This isn’t about guilt—it’s about responsibility. Once you’re aware of your suffering, you have the opportunity to act consciously and make better choices for yourself and others. Suffering Is a Teacher Suffering is not inherently bad. It becomes destructive only when it is prolonged and unaddressed. From a spiritual perspective, suffering can teach us life’s most valuable lessons—if we are willing to learn. It’s not the pain itself that holds the lesson but how we respond to it. Do we numb it with distractions, or do we face it and seek to understand it? The sooner you acknowledge and learn from your suffering, the sooner you can free yourself from it. A Path Toward Peace Suffering is not your destiny. It’s a state, not a life sentence. The first step toward freedom is awareness. Start noticing your (FEARtw) feelings, emotions, actions, reactions, thoughts, and words. Observe how they influence your decisions and relationships. When you are aware of your suffering, you are already on the path to understanding and healing. You are no longer a slave to unconscious patterns—you are free to create a better life for yourself and those around you. The choice is yours: continue living in a state of suffering, or awaken to the possibility of peace, joy, and love. Awareness is the key that unlocks the door. Remember: Awareness is the beginning of transformation.  Sunset at Opal Cliff, Santa Cruz, California, USA   When I was 13, I had a history final coming up, but I hadn’t studied the entire semester(the story of my entire pre-college years) Luckily, the teacher gave us a cheat sheet with all the answers—on the condition that we memorized it. The night before, I worked hard to remember everything and woke up early the next day to review while still lying in bed. To my surprise, I recalled everything perfectly and scored an A on the exam later! At the time, I didn’t understand how I could do that other than thinking it was pure luck, so I never tried it again—until a few years ago when I started exploring the science of brainwaves and meditation. I realized that by staying relaxed in the early morning, I had accessed my brain’s alpha state, and with focused review, I had transitioned into gamma, where memory and mental clarity are amplified. This realization led me to develop my morning meditation practice, which helps me access these brainwaves intentionally. Here’s how it works and how you can do it too. What Are Brainwaves and Why Do They Matter? Your brain operates at different frequencies, called brainwaves, depending on your activity and state of mind. Here’s how they work and what they unlock: • Delta (0.5-4 Hz): The deep sleep state essential for recovery and healing. • Theta (4-8 Hz): A dreamy, intuitive state tied to creativity and emotional processing. • Alpha (8-14 Hz): A relaxed, alert state perfect for mindfulness, learning, and calm focus. • Beta (14-30 Hz): Active thinking and problem-solving but also linked to stress. • Gamma (30-100 Hz): A high-performance state of intense focus, learning, and insight—the key to moments of brilliance and breakthroughs. By learning to move through these brainwave states, especially into gamma, you can unlock heightened awareness, creativity, and clarity. The Path to Gamma: Starting with Morning Meditation If you ask any mediators they will tell you that there’s usually a process to get into a relaxed state of mind, such as alpha state, especially meditating in the middle of the day, and it is not guaranteed they’d achieve this state everytime. However, in the morning, often times your brain naturally transitions from delta (deep sleep) through theta (dreaming) into alpha—a relaxed yet alert state. This is the perfect time to guide your mind into gamma for peak mental performance. Here’s how you can do it: 1. Start Relaxed (Alpha State): Upon waking, stay lying down or sit comfortably with your eyes closed. Let your thoughts flow naturally, observing them without judgment. This keeps your brain in alpha, a state of calm focus. 2. Focus on a Subject (Gamma Activation): When a thought or idea feels significant, gently direct your attention to it. Ask yourself reflective questions like: • “What am I feeling right now?” • “Why do I feel this way?” • “How can I better understand or address this?” Dive into the details, exploring the answers with curiosity and depth. This deliberate, focused attention transitions your brainwaves from alpha into gamma, enhancing clarity and insight. 3. Take Notes for Insights: As insights or creative ideas emerge, jot them down. Writing reinforces the sharpness and clarity of the gamma state also allows you to revisit them for contemplation at a later time. Sometimes you may find yourself writing nonstop because your mind is flooded with insights and creative ideas. This simple practice not only fosters self-awareness but also allows you to tap into the gamma state’s power for mental breakthroughs. Why Gamma Is Powerful Gamma brainwaves enhance memory, creativity, problem-solving, and moments of profound insight. They’re where you experience mental clarity and your greatest breakthroughs. This is what we often call “The Zone” or “Flow State” what many top athletes and artists experience when they reach their peak performance. I personally use this method to create more “aha” moments or epiphanies to elevate my perception of the world and to write materials like this. By transitioning into gamma, you tap into the highest potential of your mind. This morning meditation is just one way to reach gamma. In future posts, I’ll share other simple techniques, such as walking and shower meditation, etc. Let me know if you try it and how it works for you. Each person's experience may vary so I'd love to hear your experience working with this technique. |
AuthorFeelasoulphy Categories
All
Archives
December 2024
|
RSS Feed