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Category: IntoTheMystic

IntoTheMystic is a journey into the depths of spirituality, exploring the universal truths that connect all of existence. This category delves into the profound wisdom of mystics, spiritual traditions, and modern thinkers across the world. From St. John of the Cross to Rumi, from Buddhist teachings to Kabbalah, and from the insights of science to the mysteries of the infinite, IntoTheMystic invites readers to explore the formless reality that underlies all creation. It is a space to awaken to the oneness of existence, to transcend ego, and to recognize the boundless Spirit within us all. Whether through meditation, self-realization, or the search for divine presence, IntoTheMystic guides seekers toward spiritual awakening and the ultimate truth of unity.

This category bridges the gaps between religions, philosophies, and scientific discoveries, providing a harmonious exploration of what it means to live in connection with the divine mystery.

  • Embracing the ME/CFS Crash: A Journey of Pacing, Overdoing, and the Practice of Witnessing. Or, Non-duality Rocks!

    Reminder: If reading this post becomes tiring, remembert to pause and rest. Pacing applies to all activities, even the ones we love, like reading and learning. Come back to this post later if you need to. Practicing pacing, even in small moments, is an essential part of living well with chronic fatigue syndrome.

    Introduction

    There’s a rhythm to living with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), one that demands a delicate balance of energy. Most of us who live with this condition become intimately familiar with pacing—learning how to manage our energy, smoothing out the hills and valleys of our strength. Through pacing, I’ve learned to minimize the crashes that come when I push myself too far. But even with this practice, there are moments when I consciously decide to overdo it.

    Sometimes, there’s a powerful desire to break out of the limits that CFS imposes. It’s a rebellion, a brief escape. I know when I’m pushing too far, but I choose to embrace life fully for a day or two. I let myself feel that temporary energy, even though I know I’ll crash later. It’s a conscious decision to say, “I’m going to enjoy this moment, and I’m willing to pay the price.”

    For anyone with CFS, this might sound familiar. We know pacing is vital to managing our condition, but there are times when the joy of overdoing it feels worth the consequences. And yet, when the crash comes—and it always does—the body demands recovery. This is where the real work begins, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.

    The Second Arrow: Witnessing the Mind’s Reactions

    When I crash, the body does what it needs to do to heal, and I’m forced to stop. But I’ve learned over time that what really intensifies suffering isn’t just the crash itself—it’s the mental and emotional turmoil that can follow. This is where the teachings of vrittis and pratyayas have been so transformative for me.

    In simple terms, vrittis are the fluctuations of the mind—the rising and falling thoughts and emotions. Pratyayas are the seeds that drive these mental fluctuations, often based on past experiences, memories, or attachments. Together, these create the mental chatter that, when left unchecked, can deepen the suffering of any crash.

    Buddhist teachings describe this extra layer of suffering as the “second arrow.” The first arrow is the unavoidable pain—whether physical, emotional, or otherwise. But the second arrow is the mental suffering we add on top of that pain: the self-criticism, the frustration, the inner dialogue that says, “Why did I overdo it? I knew better.” This second arrow is where much of the suffering lies.

    But by the yogic practice of witnessing the vrittis and pratyayas, I’ve learned to avoid that second arrow. I observe the mental fluctuations as they come and go, without attaching to them, without allowing them to define my experience. I become the seer—the witness—and in doing so, I find that even during a crash, there is peace to be found.

    Pacing and the Conscious Decision to Overdo It

    Pacing remains the cornerstone of managing chronic fatigue syndrome. It’s about knowing your limits and respecting them, smoothing out the ups and downs of energy. But what happens when pacing fails? What happens when you make the conscious decision to overdo it, knowing full well that you’ll pay for it later?

    For me, the key has been integrating this practice of witnessing into every stage of the process. I allow myself to live fully in those moments of overindulgence, embracing the joy of activity and connection, knowing that a crash will follow. But when the crash comes, I don’t add layers of mental suffering by blaming myself. Instead, I use the crash as an opportunity to practice witnessing—the vrittis and pratyayas are just thoughts and mental patterns, not realities. By observing them, I stay free of the second arrow.

    This approach allows me to live with chronic fatigue syndrome in a way that feels less restrictive. Yes, I pace myself. Yes, I’m mindful of my energy. But even when I choose to push past those limits, I know that I can find peace in the aftermath through this practice.

    The Impulse to Finish, the Practice of Letting Go

    As I write this post, I feel the strong desire to finish it, to post it immediately so that it can be available to those who may benefit from it. It’s an impulse I recognize well—a pratyaya, a desire that drives me to push beyond my limits, even when I know it’s not in my best interest.

    But just as I practice witnessing during a crash, I also practice witnessing this impulse. I see it for what it is—just a thought, just Mara, just another fluctuation of the mind. I don’t have to follow it. I don’t have to act on it. Instead, I can pause, rest, and come back to this post when my body is ready.

    In the same way, I encourage you, as a reader, to pace yourself. This post is long, and if you find yourself feeling tired, take a break. Reading is an activity that requires energy, and pacing applies here, too. Come back to it later if you need to. Take care of your energy, just as I am doing with mine.

    A Soft Rebellion, a Path to Growth

    There is something liberating about the moments when we choose to overdo it, to embrace life fully despite knowing we’ll crash later. It’s a soft rebellion, a decision to live in the moment, even when we know the consequences. But with the right mindset, even those crashes can become opportunities for growth and practice.

    The teachings of witnessing the vrittis and pratyayas have shown me that even the difficult moments—the crashes, relapses, pain, dysfunction, and discomfort of those moments, days, or weeks of low energy—are fertile ground for inner growth. By avoiding the second arrow, and simply observing my mind without attaching to the fluctuations, I can find peace even in the midst of discomfort.

    For anyone living with chronic fatigue syndrome, I hope this reflection offers some comfort and guidance. There is no perfect way to navigate this condition, but there are practices that can help us find peace, even in the most challenging times. Whether it’s through pacing, or through the practice of witnessing, or simply by being gentle with ourselves, especially in moments of overdoing it, we can find a way to live with greater ease and acceptance.

    Take your time, pace yourself, and remember that every crash, every moment of overdoing it, is a new opportunity to practice and grow. We are all on this path together, and in that, there is a kind of peace.

    Facing the Storm: An Urgent Reminder to Pace and Witness

    As I write this, there is a real storm brewing, both within and without. The image below is a weather map of the hurricane that may soon hit my area, forcing me to evacuate. As someone living in an RV, evacuation is usually mandatory in situations like this, and so I find myself facing the possibility of having to leave my bed in the middle of a crash caused by overdoing it.

    The threat is very real, and so the importance of pacing is now at a level that I can’t ignore. I must prioritize rest and recovery immediately, because no matter what state I’m in, I’ll have to get out of bed and go to the hurricane shelter at the church next door if an evacuation order comes.

    This situation has made it even clearer to me how crucial the practice of witnessing vrittis and pratyayas is. Without that practice, I would be overwhelmed by anxiety and fear right now. The mind wants to run wild with worst-case scenarios and worries, but I have been training myself to simply witness these thoughts as they arise. They are just thoughts—just mental fluctuations. They do not have to define my experience. I can stay present, calm, and clear, ready to deal with whatever comes.

    So, after I finish writing this post, I’m going into massive rest and be prepared mode. The practice of pacing has never been more critical. This is an extreme red-flag situation, and I hope it serves as a reminder to all of us with chronic fatigue syndrome: sometimes, the urgency of rest is not just about avoiding a crash; it’s about survival.

    Take a look at the image below—it’s a reminder to me, and hopefully to you as well, that life can throw storms at us both literally and metaphorically. But with the right practices, we can remain centered and grounded, ready to face what comes with a steady mind and a rested body.

    As we face the storms within and around us, may we find peace in the stillness of our hearts. May all beings be free from suffering and the causes of suffering. May all beings experience happiness and the causes of happiness. May we all find safety, strength, and well-being on our journeys, no matter how turbulent the path. May we be guided by wisdom, anchored in compassion, and find harmony in the unfolding of each moment. And in these times of uncertainty, may we remember our interconnectedness, and may we all be held in grace and peace.

    🙏🕊️🙏



  • Witnessing the Journey: Strengthening the Seer in Life’s Transitions

    In the journey of spiritual growth, each moment, each challenge, and every encounter presents an opportunity to deepen our awareness. No matter the external circumstances—whether we’re moving from one phase of life to another, letting go of past attachments, or simply observing the fluctuations of the mind—there is a steady witness that remains untouched. This witness, or seer, is the essence of our true nature, and learning to strengthen our connection to it is one of the most important steps on the path to inner freedom.

    The Shift from Mind to Heart

    For many of us, the longest journey is the shift from the ordinary mind to the heart, or from the restless fluctuations of thoughts (vrittis) to the calm, witnessing presence. The heart, in spiritual traditions such as Advaita Vedanta and Jewish mysticism, is often equated with the Divine. It’s not merely an emotional center but the seat of the Divine Presence within us—Atman as Brahman, or the individual self as one with the Absolute.

    As we begin to experience this shift, we realize that our external experiences—both positive and negative—are just reflections of the inner workings of our mind. The challenges, such as illness or life transitions, become opportunities to witness these reflections without being swept away by them. This movement from the mind to the heart is the foundation for a life of spiritual presence.

    Living Between Excitement and Calm

    One of the paradoxes on the spiritual path is living with dual awareness: experiencing the emotional fluctuations of excitement, frustration, or joy while simultaneously witnessing them from a place of calm and neutrality. The spiritual journey does not require that we suppress these emotions, but rather that we hold them lightly, recognizing them as transient waves on the surface of our consciousness.

    As Namkhai Norbu teaches, the presence of awareness exists both in moments of calm and agitation. The mind may be excited, but the witness remains still. This dual awareness allows us to engage fully with life without losing our spiritual center. As we strengthen the seer within us, we find that both excitement and calm can coexist, and we learn to embrace the paradox of non-duality within dual awareness.

    Letting Go of Attachments: The RV and Beyond

    Transitions in life—whether they involve moving from one home to another or shifting from one state of consciousness to another—offer us the chance to practice letting go. For many years, a beloved space like an RV can be a sanctuary, a place of refuge for meditation and contemplation. But when the time comes to leave, it becomes a test of non-attachment, a reminder that the true sanctuary is within us.

    Letting go is not simply about releasing physical objects or spaces; it’s about releasing the emotional and mental attachments we have to them. It’s about trusting that even as we move into unfamiliar territory, the witness remains constant. As we let go of the old, we create space for something new to emerge—a fresh start, or beginner’s mind, as we navigate life with openness and curiosity.

    The Importance of Trust and Faith

    A major theme in this spiritual journey is trust—trust in the Divine, trust in ourselves, and trust in the process. After years of doubt and uncertainty, we may begin to experience a deep sense of confidence and trust in life’s unfolding. Even when life presents us with difficult or unexpected challenges, such as illness or the need to move from a long-held refuge, trust allows us to remain grounded in the witness.

    This trust doesn’t mean we stop facing difficulties, but rather that we learn to see them as part of the greater unfolding of our spiritual path. Each test, no matter how small or large, becomes another opportunity to strengthen the seer within. As the Buddha taught, the Dharma is like a raft that helps us cross the ocean of suffering. Once we reach the other shore, we leave the raft behind, trusting that we now carry the teachings within us.

    Witnessing the Witness: A Reflection of Inner Harmony

    Ultimately, the journey is about witnessing the witness—becoming aware of the awareness that is always present, regardless of the external conditions. This awareness, which we can also call the Divine, is not dependent on calmness or agitation, happiness or sadness. It simply is. And as we deepen our connection to this awareness, we come to embody the teachings in our lived experience.

    The process of writing and sharing these insights is part of this journey. Just as we are learning to let go of attachments, we also leave behind reflections in the form of writings, teachings, and blog posts. This is karma yoga—an offering of selfless service to whoever may benefit from these reflections. Like the authentic seeker who presents the teachings from the heart rather than from notes, we are called to embody the wisdom we’ve gathered and leave the rest for others to use as they see fit.

    Conclusion: The Journey of the Seer

    In the end, the journey is about becoming the witness to our own life, embracing both the external challenges and the internal awareness that guides us through them. As we continue to strengthen the seer within us, we move closer to a life of true presence, where each moment, no matter how challenging, becomes an opportunity for growth and transformation.

    May this reflection serve as a reminder to all who encounter it that the witness is always present, guiding us through the transitions of life and helping us to cultivate trust, non-attachment, and inner peace.

    🙏🕊️🙏



  • Book Review: “Our Pristine Mind” by Orgyen Chowang

    Embracing the Eternal Now: Cultivating Spiritual Presence in Daily Life

    A Journey Through Mindfulness, Equanimity, and Spiritual Connection

    In the whirlwind of our daily lives, it’s easy to become consumed by the relentless pace of duties, responsibilities, and the constant barrage of information. The echoes of the past and the whispers of the future often tug at our attention, leaving us fragmented and seldom at peace. Yet, the present moment holds a profound promise—the promise of true clarity and peace.

    Cultivating a relaxed mind not only enhances our ability to navigate everyday challenges with grace but also opens us to deeper insights and a greater connection with our true selves. By learning to inhabit the moment fully, we unlock the potential to transform our entire life’s experience, fostering a state of well-being that radiates outward in our thoughts, actions, and interactions.

    How, then, can we cultivate a state of equanimity and truly leave our minds alone? Here are some guiding principles to help us navigate this path.

    Don’t Follow the Past

    It’s easy to be pulled back into the past. Imagine sitting quietly and suddenly a memory from a past mistake creeps in, clouding your mood and stealing the peace of the current moment. However, dwelling in the past often means missing out on the now—on the opportunity to engage fully with life as it happens. Letting go of the past involves an understanding that every moment is a chance to start anew, to choose differently, and to move forward with a lighter heart.

    Practical Tip: Whenever you find yourself anchored to a past memory, gently remind yourself, “This memory is not my current reality.” Allow yourself to feel any emotions associated with it and then visualize setting it adrift down a river, watching it fade with compassion and detachment.

    Don’t Anticipate the Future

    Similarly, projecting our thoughts into the future can be just as distracting. Consider a scenario where you’re planning a meeting and start to worry excessively about its outcome, which then consumes your thoughts and disrupts your present work. Worrying about what’s yet to come not only breeds anxiety but also prevents us from taking actionable steps in the present that could actually mitigate those concerns.

    Practical Tip: Practice grounding exercises when you find your mind darting forward. Focus on your senses—what can you see, hear, touch, taste, and smell right this moment? This practice helps bring you back to the present and reduces anxiety about the future.

    Remain in Equanimity

    Equanimity is the balanced state where we are not swayed by the highs of joy nor the lows of despair. Imagine receiving news that would typically upset you, but instead of reacting impulsively, you remain calm, reflecting on the situation with a balanced perspective. It is a place of mental stability and composure that allows us to face life’s challenges with a calm and steady mind.

    Practical Tip: Develop a daily meditation practice. Even five minutes a day can help you cultivate a neutral mind that approaches all situations with balance and clarity.

    Leave Your Mind Alone

    At times, the best action is inaction. Consider watching your thoughts during a stressful moment, like observing clouds moving across the sky, without attempting to change their direction or speed. Leaving your mind alone means not meddling with your thoughts as they arise. It’s about observing them without judgment and letting them pass without attachment.

    Practical Tip: Engage in mindfulness meditation where the goal is not to empty the mind of thoughts, but to observe them coming and going, like clouds across a vast sky.

    Listening for the “Still Small Voice”

    For our Christian friends, embracing the present moment can be seen as an opportunity to listen for the “still small voice” of God, as described in 1 Kings 19:12, where Elijah encounters God not in the earthquake or fire, but in a gentle whisper. Taking time each day to let go of our busy, distracted minds to rest in the Holy Spirit allows us to connect with divine guidance and comfort.

    Similarly, the story of young Samuel from 1 Samuel 3:1-10 beautifully illustrates the process of becoming attuned to the divine voice. Mistaking the Lord’s call for Eli’s voice, Samuel’s repeated response, “Here I am,” eventually aligns with divine communication when he says, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” This moment of realization exemplifies the importance of being truly present, ready to receive spiritual guidance.

    The Jewish Tradition of Hineni

    In the Jewish tradition, the phrase “Hineni” – “I am here,” uttered by prophets like Abraham and Moses, represents a total, undistracted presence to the divine call. This sacred declaration is not just a statement of location but a profound acknowledgment of being fully present—spiritually, mentally, and physically—ready to engage with whatever God asks of them without hesitation.

    Why It Matters

    Understanding the distinction between simply being present and being spiritually present can transform the practice from a routine exercise to a life-changing discipline. The spiritual practice of presence is not about enduring the present but about uncovering an ever-present peace that enlightens and sustains us. It is here, in this sacred space, that we encounter the divine, the infinite, and the eternal right within our everyday moments.

    🙏🕊️🙏

    If you’re interested in exploring this transformative approach further, I highly recommend Orgyen Chowang’s book The Pristine Mind. His teachings provide a clear, compassionate path toward uncovering the inherent purity of our mind, offering a source of deep fulfillment and lasting peace.

  • Caravan of Love: The Universal Path of Righteousness Across All Traditions

    In the vast tapestry of world religions, certain values transcend cultural and doctrinal differences, weaving together a shared vision of what it means to live a righteous and compassionate life. These values—purity, righteousness, kindness, forgiveness, and compassion—are cornerstones of what many traditions aspire to cultivate in their followers. Whether it’s the Sadhu Dharma in Hinduism, the concept of Tzaddikim in Judaism, or the pursuit of being a Mensch, these ideals serve as beacons of light in our shared human journey.

    Sadhu Dharma, the path of the holy person, is a life dedicated to truth, simplicity, and non-attachment. The Sadhus, through their renunciation and ascetic practices, embody a life that seeks to transcend the material and focus entirely on the spiritual. Their lives are marked by a commitment to Dharma—righteousness and moral order—a principle that resonates deeply in Hindu philosophy. This dedication to purity of mind and heart is not just about personal enlightenment but about embodying virtues that uplift society as a whole.

    In Judaism, the concept of Tzaddikim refers to the righteous ones, those whose lives are marked by a deep commitment to justice, kindness, and integrity. The Tzaddik, much like the Sadhu, is someone who has dedicated their life to the service of others and to the fulfillment of divine commandments. They are seen as pillars of the world, their righteousness serving as a foundation for the spiritual and moral health of the community.

    Similarly, the idea of being a Mensch, which in Yiddish refers to a person of integrity and honor, is highly valued in Jewish culture. A Mensch is someone who embodies the values of kindness, responsibility, and decency in their daily life. This concept, though rooted in Jewish tradition, has universal appeal, as it speaks to the importance of living a life that others can look up to and respect.

    In Christianity, the teachings of Jesus Christ offer a profound example of a life dedicated to love, compassion, and forgiveness. Jesus’s Sermon on the Mount is a timeless guide to living a life of righteousness. His call to love one’s neighbor as oneself, to forgive endlessly, and to seek peace in all things, aligns beautifully with the teachings of Sadhu Dharma and the principles of Tzaddikim. Jesus’s life is a testament to the power of living with an open heart, free from the shackles of anger, greed, and judgment.

    Islam also emphasizes the importance of righteousness and moral conduct. The Quran and Hadith provide guidance on how to live a life that is pleasing to God, through acts of charity, honesty, and justice. The concept of Taqwa, often translated as God-consciousness or piety, encourages Muslims to live in constant awareness of God’s presence, guiding them to act with integrity and compassion. The Prophet Muhammad’s life is filled with examples of humility, kindness, and dedication to the welfare of others, setting a high standard for ethical conduct.

    Buddhism, with its emphasis on the Noble Eightfold Path, also encourages a life of right conduct, right speech, and right livelihood. The Buddha’s teachings on compassion (Karuna) and loving-kindness (Metta) offer a path to purifying one’s mind and living in harmony with others. The simplicity of the Buddha’s advice to “Be good, do good, purify your mind” resonates across all these traditions, offering a succinct summary of the universal path to spiritual awakening.

    Despite the diversity of religious expressions, these examples highlight a shared commitment to cultivating a life of virtue. Whether it’s through the renunciation of a Sadhu, the righteousness of a Tzaddik, the integrity of a Mensch, the compassion of Christ, the piety of a Muslim, or the mindfulness of a Buddhist, the underlying message is clear: to live a life that reflects the highest values of humanity.

    In today’s world, where division and discord often seem to dominate the narrative, these teachings remind us of the importance of unity and the power of virtue. They encourage us to rise above our differences and to see in each other the same divine spark that guides our own path. By embracing these universal principles, we contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate world—a world where peace and righteousness are not just ideals but lived realities.

    As we continue our journey through the sacred stories and teachings of various traditions, may we carry these lessons with us, allowing them to shape our actions and our hearts. In doing so, we honor the diversity of spiritual paths while recognizing the common ground that unites us all.

    🙏🕊️🙏