Observation From Taking Time Off From Enlightenment Work

[Guest]

Notes:

-Significantly more neurotic when not pursuing enlightenment:

-More insecure

-More distracted

-More negative self-talk

-Less peace of mind

-Happiness is highs and lows instead of steady

-Happiness feels like a drug rather than a state of being

-Feel the need to compare self to others much more

-Discontent with self

-Stronger identification with the ego

-Fear of future

-Fear of others opinions

-Need for approval

-Shame from behaviors

-Feeling responsible and guilty for shortcomings

-Feeling like life is a lie

 

Observations after resuming Strong Determination Sitting:

Everything from the previous list is less intense; there is less suffering; there is greater peace of mind.

 

I am going to start doing multiple SDS a day, whenever I have time. Also, instead of filling my schedule with egoic pursuits, other than career and basic necessities, I will be pursuing enlightenment. Doing nothing is more fulfilling than just about anything else.

[Flicker_boy]

yeah!

[Natasha]

@Saitama 

Ayla started a journal this morning Mind Attacks After Initial Seeing with practical solutions to help us stay on track.

[Guest]

@Natasha Thanks for the info

[vizual]

It's good you have experienced that you are still falling when you take off the training wheels. But realize that eventually you really have to take off the training wheels as well. Don't confuse cycling with the training wheels on with actually making progress for cycling without the wheels. The best measurement for progress is still your ability to cycle without the wheels.

[Guest]

@vizual Are you saying eventually I will have to be conscious without meditation?

[Ludwig]

@Saitama

2 hours ago, Saitama said:

@vizual Are you saying eventually I will have to be conscious without meditation?

That's a natural thing that will come out of your practice. If you're only conscious on your meditation cushion it's completly useless. 

[Guest]

@Ludwig I figured. I just didn't know what he was getting at.