Dream delivers us to dream, and there is no end to illusion. Life is a train of moods like a string of beads, and, as we pass through them, they prove to be many-colored lenses which paint the world their own hue, and each shows only what lies in its focus.
- Ralph Waldo Emerson, Experience
Have you ever noticed how hard we can be on ourselves sometimes? It's like we're in this constant conversation with our inner critic, right? But here's something fascinating – what if we break down that self-criticism into smaller pieces or even engage with it as if it's a separate entity? This simple shift can offer profound insights into why we hold ourselves to such high standards.
Now, let's go a step deeper. Imagine that we're not just one fixed person but a tapestry of various personas, each with its own story and energy. When we start to see ourselves from this perspective, it's like unlocking hidden doors within us. We discover qualities, strengths, and nuances that were previously veiled.
So, the next time that inner critic starts chiming in, remember this multifaceted truth about who we are. It's a gentle reminder that our complexities are what make us beautifully human.
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Meditation Practice
Opening to the Wider View
At this stage in our practice, we are ready to overcome gross distraction and strong dullness, which is crucial for deepening concentration. Gross distraction refers to situations where non-meditative thoughts become the main focus, pulling attention away from the meditation object. Strong dullness, on the other hand, refers to a lack of clarity and alertness in observing the meditation object, often leading to sleepiness or mental fog.
Today’s Featured Text:
The Essential Writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson