Discussion of spiritual practices: awakening, meditation, and the freedom that cannot be lost or found. All perspectives are welcome; advaita, christian, buddhist, islam or even no perspective at all. Just pointing to that which is nearest and dearest.


For some "awakening hints" take a peek at: www.robertflegal.com



Wednesday, May 5, 2010

life without center

In spiritual circles there is this idea of 'centering' ... that is, finding "our center." I guess the idea is ... if we somehow "find our center, "we can remain there and not be affected by life and its many twist, turns, and ups and downs. Does this ever work? Have you found your center?

Where would your center be? Take a look right now and see if you can find it. Bet you can't!

The idea of finding our center is one 'spiritual' variant on the idea that we can find some state or place where, in the future, we will have some consistent experience. As Dr. Phil often wisely asks: "How is that working for you?"

I suggest that if you take a careful look right here right now, you will find that there is only emptiness when you ask the question: "Who am I?" How can emptiness have a center? How can the profound freedom to let things be just as they are right now have a center?

Living life without center is to live life as it spontaneously arises in each moment ... noticing its astounding perfection. How do we know that it is perfect? Because that is how it is ... nothing can ever be other than it is.

So ... rather than trying to find some 'center' when you meditate, just notice how perfect everything is right now. Then you will see that the idea of 'you' having a 'center' is riotously laughable. Enjoy the laughter! As Alan Alda notes: "When people are laughing, they're generally not killing each other."

ok?

bob

3 comments:

  1. Bob! This is beautiful and so concisely written. Thanks so much for pointing me to your blog and for being such a clear and sweet writer. I'm gonna share this post on my Facebook wall. Hope that's groovy! I'll check back here, too. Best, Carin Channing (Carina ShantiOm)

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  2. Hello Carina,

Thanks for your post. I like the "dear Abby" format that you use on your blog (http://www.nowstayopen.blogspot.com/).

    Of course, it's fine to share whatever you find on this site.

    

bob

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  3. Bob,
    I so appreciate how you continue to shatter the molds around spirituality and "the way to be" that's put out there in the world.

    I always leave your blogs smiling... and sharing it.

    Love,
    April

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