✨ English ✨ The light of warmth shines through the long night, 🌙 Though storms may rage, the heart’s lantern never fades. 🕯️ Though mountains are high and waters far, a homebound boat remains, ⛰️🌊⛵ After hardship, spring arrives, and the world is born anew. 🌿🌸
✨ Spanish / Español ✨ La luz del alma brilla en la oscuridad, 🌙 Aunque ruja la tormenta, la llama no se apaga. 🕯️ Montañas y mares no detienen el regreso, ⛰️🌊⛵ Tras la prueba, la primavera renace. 🌿🌸
✨ Italiano ✨ La luce dell’anima illumina la notte, 🌙 Anche nella tempesta, la fiamma non si spegne. 🕯️ Monti e mari non fermano il ritorno, ⛰️🌊⛵ Dopo il dolore, la primavera rinasce. 🌿🌸
✨ العربية / Arabic ✨ نور الروح يضيء الظلام، 🌙 مهما اشتدت العواصف، لا تنطفئ الشمعة. 🕯️ الجبال والبحار لا تمنع العودة، ⛰️🌊⛵ بعد المحن، يأتي الربيع ويولد العالم من جديد. 🌿🌸
✨ עברית / Hebrew ✨ אור הנשמה זורח בלילה החשוך, 🌙 גם בסערה, הנר אינו כבה. 🕯️ ההרים והימים אינם עוצרים את השיבה, ⛰️🌊⛵ לאחר הקושי, האביב מגיע והעולם נולד מחדש. 🌿🌸
✨ Русский / Russian ✨ Свет души сияет сквозь ночь, 🌙 Пусть бушует буря, но огонь не гаснет. 🕯️ Горы и воды не остановят путь домой, ⛰️🌊⛵ После невзгод приходит весна, и мир обновляется. 🌿🌸
✨ Українська / Ukrainian ✨ Світло душі сяє крізь ніч, 🌙 Хай шторм бушує, та вогонь не згасне. 🕯️ Гори й води не зупинять дорогу додому, ⛰️🌊⛵ Після труднощів настає весна, і світ відроджується. 🌿🌸
There is an ancient story, older than memory, that speaks of a gentle presence who stands at the threshold of each journey. He is called Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. In Hindu tradition, he is worshipped as a friend and guardian of beginnings, an embodiment of wisdom and gentle strength. His form is unmistakable—an elephant head, eyes deep with understanding, a body both round and rooted, as though he holds the world’s burdens yet is unburdened himself.
But look closely, and you’ll see that Ganesha belongs not only to Hinduism, nor merely to any single path. Ganesha, in his role, belongs to all of us, for who has not felt the weight of obstacles pressing upon them? His is a universal invitation, an ancient whisper, to release our inner blocks, to allow wisdom, compassion, and clarity to dissolve the clouds that obscure our view of the divine.
We often imagine that the obstacles are out there in the world, hidden in life’s hardships or circumstances. But in invoking Ganesha, we are drawn to the deeper realization that these barriers are inward. They are the veils of attachment, fear, confusion, the stubborn illusions of ego. Ganesha, then, is not merely a god of external beginnings, but of spiritual awakening—the remover of all that would obscure our own path to knowing God.
In this light, Ganesha’s role is universal. His invocation is not unlike the quiet prayer of a Christian asking for guidance, or a Sufi’s yearning for the grace to surrender. To honor Ganesha as an interfaith presence is to understand that all traditions hold this longing for clarity, for wisdom, for the freedom that arises when the spirit is unbound.
Each tradition has its own language, its own stories, but the heart of each is the same—a call to remove the obstacles that block us from truth. In this spirit, may we see Ganesha as more than a Hindu deity; may we see him as a shared symbol of our journey toward the divine. For in removing these obstacles, we are made ready to experience the peace, the stillness, the God that lives in all.
Why does the mantra Neti Neti feel more relaxing and effective compared to other mantras like “Who am I?” or “What is this?” and how does it help in negating both subject and object without stimulating a desire for answers?
Dear friend,
It brings me great joy to hear that you have found a mantra that resonates so deeply with your heart and mind. The simplicity and profound wisdom of “Not This, Not This” are indeed a balm for the soul, especially for one who has journeyed far in search of answers. In this mantra, you have discovered a path that requires no seeking, no striving—only the gentle negation of all that arises.Let me share with you some reflections that may deepen your understanding and ease your way as you continue with this practice.
In the practice of “Not This, Not This,” there is no need to engage in the endless search for answers. Unlike the questions “Who am I?” or “What is this?”—which can stir the mind into seeking—this mantra offers a different approach. It does not ask you to solve a riddle or uncover a hidden truth. Instead, it invites you to simply let go, to recognize that whatever arises—whether it appears as a thought, an emotion, or even an answer—is not the ultimate reality. By gently negating each thought or feeling, you are led beyond the confines of the mind, into a space where true peace and stillness reside.
As you continue with this practice, you may find moments of clarity where you can distinctly see both the subject and the object—the observer and the observed. This is a crucial insight, for it shows you that what you are perceiving, what you are witnessing, is still within the realm of duality. The mantra “Not This, Not This” serves as a reminder that neither the subject nor the object is the true self, the Atman. The duality that appears so real is, in fact, just another layer to be gently set aside, leading you deeper into the heart of non-dual awareness.
One of the great gifts of this mantra is the relaxation it brings. When you are no longer compelled to search for answers, the mind can rest. There is a profound release that comes from knowing that you do not need to grasp at anything—whether it be a thought, an experience, or an identity. Each time you repeat “Not This,” you are allowing yourself to let go of the burdens of the mind, to release the tension of trying to understand or control. In this letting go, you find a deep and abiding peace, a state of being where you are free from the demands of the ego and the constant chatter of the mind.
This practice is gently guiding you toward a state of non-dual awareness, where the distinctions between self and other, subject and object, begin to dissolve. As you continue with “Not This, Not This,” you may notice that the boundaries you once perceived are fading away, leaving you in a space of pure being. In this space, there is nothing to seek, nothing to achieve—only the simple, profound experience of existence itself, free from all labels, judgments, and identities. This is the true essence of Atman, the pure awareness that is your deepest self.
As you walk this path, my dear friend, know that you are not alone. The wisdom of the ages supports you, and the truth of your being is always present, waiting patiently for you to recognize it. Continue with your practice, allowing the mantra to guide you ever deeper into the heart of silence and stillness. And remember, there is no rush, no destination—only the journey, unfolding moment by moment.
May your practice bring you peace, clarity, and the deep joy of simply being.
In the previous post, we explored the importance of discipline and of calming the mind’s fluctuations, or vrittis, as described in Sutra 1.2. This brings us to the next essential question: What happens when the mind becomes still? What is revealed in that stillness, and what occurs when we remain caught in the waves of thought?
Patanjali’s Sutras 1.3 and 1.4 address these questions directly:
1.3: Then, the Seer abides in its true nature. 1.4: At other times, the Seer identifies with the fluctuations of the mind.
These sutras point to the core of Patanjali’s teachings. When the mind is quiet and still, we experience our true self—often referred to as the Seer, the one who witnesses without attachment. In this state of presence, we are not our thoughts, emotions, or the external world. We simply are—a reflection of pure consciousness, free from the distortions created by mental activity.
However, as Sutra 1.4 reminds us, when the mind is restless, we tend to identify with its movements. Instead of recognizing ourselves as the calm, observing presence, we become entangled in our thoughts and emotions. This misidentification is the source of much of our suffering, as we lose sight of our true nature and become caught in the illusions of the mind.
The True Self and Misperception
Patanjali is pointing to a fundamental distinction: there is the Seer, the pure awareness that we are, and there are the vrittis, or the mental fluctuations that obscure this awareness. When we are identified with the fluctuations, we see through a distorted lens. Our thoughts, emotions, and external circumstances take on an exaggerated sense of reality, and we mistake them for who we are. This is misperception, the root of suffering in yoga philosophy.
However, when we practice calming the mind and returning to stillness, the vrittis subside, and we begin to experience life from a place of pure awareness. In this state, we are no longer bound by our thoughts or emotions. Instead, we recognize them as temporary movements of the mind, while our true essence remains constant and untouched.
Applying This Wisdom in Practice
The challenge, of course, is that the mind rarely stays still for long. Thoughts, emotions, and distractions are always arising, pulling us away from the calm, observing presence. However, the goal of yoga is not to eliminate these mental movements entirely but to shift our relationship to them.
Through practice, we learn to observe the fluctuations of the mind without identifying with them. This is the essence of Raja Yoga—the royal path of self-mastery. As we cultivate stillness, we gain the strength to remain centered in our true nature, even as the mind continues its movements.
Each time we sit in meditation or reflect on these teachings, we are training ourselves to return to this place of stillness, to abide in the awareness of the Seer. In doing so, we gradually loosen the grip of misperception and move closer to the realization of our true nature.
A Reflection on Swami Vivekananda’s Translation
Swami Vivekananda’s translation of these sutras adds another layer of clarity. His teachings emphasize the importance of self-discipline and mental focus in realizing the true self. Vivekananda reminds us that yoga is not just a path of knowledge but one of direct experience. It is through disciplined practice that we experience the Seer and begin to see through the illusions of the mind.
Moving Forward: The Practice of Abiding in Stillness
As we reflect on Sutras 1.3 and 1.4, we can take a practical approach to integrating their wisdom. Begin by setting aside time each day to sit in stillness, observing the movements of the mind without attachment. When thoughts arise, gently remind yourself that you are the Seer, not the fluctuations. Over time, this practice will deepen, and the distinction between the Seer and the vrittis will become clearer.
But more than just observing, the practice invites us to abide in stillness. The word “abide” carries a richness that implies more than simply being present—it suggests resting deeply, dwelling in a state of ease, and allowing the true nature of the Seer to unfold without resistance. To abide is to sink into the natural state of awareness, where there is no striving, no force—only a quiet, steady presence.
As Joseph Goldstein has spoken of in his commentary on the Satipatthana Sutra, abiding is not passive but an active engagement with our true nature. It is a continual resting in awareness, a soft yet unwavering commitment to remain as the witness. In this way, the Seer abides in its true nature, not as an abstract concept, but as a living, breathing experience.
By consistently returning to stillness, we strengthen the muscle of awareness and begin to live more fully from our true nature. The journey is ongoing, but each step brings us closer to the realization of who we truly are.
Coming Up Next:
In the next post, we will explore Sutras 1.5 and 1.6, where Patanjali elaborates on the nature of the vrittis. We’ll learn about the five types of mental fluctuations and how they either lead to suffering or liberation. Join me as we continue this journey into the depths of the mind and the path to freedom.
When thoughts arise, gently remind yourself that you are the Seer, not the fluctuations.
Lesson 25 of A Course in Miracles presents the lesson: “I do not know what anything is for.” This teaching challenges us to question our preconceived notions and interpretations of the world. By acknowledging our limited understanding and releasing the need to assign purposes to everything, we open ourselves to divine guidance and clarity.
This practice invites us to become aware of our tendency to judge and categorize based on our conditioned beliefs. By understanding that our interpretations often stem from fear and separation, we can start to cultivate a mindset of openness and willingness to see beyond appearances.
Jesus often taught about the importance of surrendering to divine guidance and trusting in God’s plan. In Proverbs 3:5-6, it says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” This teaching aligns with ACIM’s guidance to surrender our perceptions and trust in the Holy Spirit’s guidance for true understanding and purpose.
By practicing Lesson 25, we align ourselves with Christ’s message of humility and trust. We learn to release our ego’s need to control and understand, and instead, open ourselves to receive divine wisdom and purpose.
Explore Lesson 25 of A Course in Miracles with us, and discover how letting go of our interpretations can lead to greater clarity, peace, and spiritual awakening.
Guided Meditation: Lesson 25 from A Course in Miracles
Find a comfortable position, either sitting or lying down, where you can relax and be free from distractions.
Close your eyes gently and take a few deep breaths, allowing yourself to settle into the present moment.
Bring your attention to your breath, feeling the sensation of each inhale and exhale.
Reflect on the central theme of Lesson 25: “I do not know what anything is for.”
Contemplate the idea that your understanding of the world is limited by your past experiences and conditioning, and that you may not always know the true purpose or meaning behind things.
Acknowledge that when you rely solely on your own understanding, you may misinterpret the events and circumstances of your life.
With each breath, imagine releasing any attachment to needing to know the purpose or meaning behind everything, allowing yourself to fully embrace the idea of surrendering to a higher wisdom.
Visualize yourself letting go of the need to have all the answers, trusting instead in the unfolding of life’s mysteries.
Feel a sense of peace and openness as you surrender to the knowledge that there is a greater purpose and meaning behind everything, even if it is not immediately apparent.
Repeat the following affirmations silently or in your mind:
“I do not know what anything is for.”
“I release all attachment to needing to know the purpose or meaning behind everything.”
“I trust in the unfolding of life’s mysteries.”
Allow yourself to rest in this space of surrender and trust for a few moments, feeling supported and guided by a higher wisdom.
When you’re ready, gently bring your awareness back to your surroundings. Wiggle your fingers and toes, and slowly open your eyes.
Take a moment to reflect on your experience, noticing any insights or shifts in perception that may have occurred.
Remember that you can return to this meditation whenever you feel called to deepen your understanding of Lesson 25.
Lesson 14 of A Course in Miracles introduces the lesson: “God did not create a meaningless world.” This teaching challenges us to reconsider our perception of the world as lacking purpose or significance. By acknowledging that the world we see is not a reflection of God’s creation, we can begin to shift our understanding towards recognizing the divine order and purpose behind all existence.
This practice invites us to question the validity of our judgments and interpretations. By understanding that God’s creation is inherently meaningful and purposeful, we can start to align our thoughts and perceptions with the divine truth.
Jesus emphasized the loving nature of God’s creation and the inherent purpose behind all life. In Genesis 1:31, it is written, “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.” This teaching aligns with ACIM’s guidance to see beyond the illusions of meaninglessness and recognize the inherent goodness and purposefulness of God’s creation.
By practicing Lesson 14, we align ourselves with Christ’s message of divine love and creation. We learn to see through the illusions of a meaningless world and open ourselves to a deeper recognition of God’s presence and purpose in all aspects of life.
Explore Lesson 14 of A Course in Miracles with us, and discover how embracing the meaningfulness of God’s creation can lead to greater peace, clarity, and spiritual awakening.
Guided Meditation: Lesson 14 from A Course in Miracles
This guided meditation is tailored to encompass the elements, themes, messages, and practices of Lesson 14 from A Course in Miracles.
Find a comfortable position, either sitting or lying down, where you can relax and be free from distractions.
Close your eyes gently and take a few deep breaths, allowing yourself to settle into the present moment.
Bring your attention to your breath, feeling the sensation of each inhale and exhale.
Reflect on the central theme of Lesson 14: “God did not create a meaningless world.”
Contemplate the idea that the world, as it truly is, is not meaningless, but rather holds profound meaning and purpose.
Acknowledge that the belief in a meaningless world is a distortion of reality, born out of separation from our true nature and from God.
With each breath, imagine releasing any attachment to the belief in a meaningless world, allowing it to dissolve like mist in the sunlight.
Visualize yourself stepping back from your perceptions, observing them with a sense of detachment and clarity.
Feel a sense of peace and reassurance as you recognize that God did not create a meaningless world, but rather a world filled with love, beauty, and purpose.
Repeat the following affirmations silently or in your mind:
“God did not create a meaningless world.”
“I release all attachments to the belief in a meaningless world.”
“I open myself to experiencing the world as a reflection of God’s love and perfection.”
Allow yourself to rest in this space of inner peace and clarity for a few moments, letting go of any attachment to the belief in a meaningless world.
When you’re ready, gently bring your awareness back to your surroundings. Wiggle your fingers and toes, and slowly open your eyes.
Take a moment to reflect on your experience, noticing any insights or shifts in perception that may have occurred.
Remember that you can return to this meditation whenever you feel called to deepen your understanding of Lesson fourteen.
Lesson 13 of A Course in Miracles presents the lesson: “A meaningless world engenders fear.” This teaching invites us to explore how our perception of the world as lacking meaning can lead to feelings of fear and insecurity. By acknowledging the connection between our beliefs about the world and our emotional experiences, we can begin to unravel the root causes of fear.
This practice encourages us to examine how our thoughts about the world shape our feelings and reactions. By understanding that a perception of meaninglessness fosters fear, we can start to question and release the beliefs that keep us trapped in cycles of anxiety and distress.
Jesus taught about overcoming fear and finding security in divine truth. In John 14:1, He says, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.” This teaching aligns with ACIM’s guidance to transcend fear by recognizing the illusory nature of the ego’s perception of the world.
By practicing Lesson 13, we align ourselves with Christ’s message of faith and trust in divine love. We learn to see through the fearful projections of a meaningless world and open ourselves to a deeper sense of security and peace rooted in spiritual truth.
Explore Lesson 13 of A Course in Miracles with us, and discover how releasing the belief in a meaningless world can lead to greater freedom from fear and a more profound connection with the divine presence within.
Guided Meditation: Lesson 13 from A Course in Miracles
This guided meditation is tailored to encompass the elements, themes, messages, and practices of Lesson 13 from A Course in Miracles.
Find a comfortable position, either sitting or lying down, where you can relax and be free from distractions.
Close your eyes gently and take a few deep breaths, allowing yourself to settle into the present moment.
Bring your attention to your breath, feeling the sensation of each inhale and exhale.
Reflect on the central theme of Lesson 13: “A meaningless world engenders fear.”
Contemplate the idea that the belief in a meaningless world leads to fear and anxiety.
Acknowledge that your perceptions of the world as meaningless contribute to your experience of fear.
With each breath, imagine releasing any attachment to the belief in a meaningless world, allowing it to dissolve like mist in the sunlight.
Visualize yourself stepping back from your perceptions, observing them with a sense of detachment and clarity.
Feel a sense of peace and calm wash over you as you release the belief in a meaningless world and the fear it engenders.
Repeat the following affirmations silently or in your mind:
“A meaningless world engenders fear.”
“I release all attachments to the belief in a meaningless world.”
“I choose to see the world as a reflection of love instead of fear.”
Allow yourself to rest in this space of inner peace and clarity for a few moments, letting go of any attachment to fear.
When you’re ready, gently bring your awareness back to your surroundings. Wiggle your fingers and toes, and slowly open your eyes.
Take a moment to reflect on your experience, noticing any insights or shifts in perception that may have occurred.
Remember that you can return to this meditation whenever you feel called to deepen your understanding of Lesson thirteen.
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