what lense are you using?

During a brief guided meditation over the weekend, I became aware of a deep-seated conclusion that I have been operating from in certain areas of my life.  The conclusion is one of unworthiness and although it is not operating in all areas of my life and at all times, it is a part of my egoic self and it blocks me from experiencing the Higher Self.  During the meditation I also became aware of a bright light shining beneath the unworthy view of self.

Adyashanti says "we all yearn for a sense of wholeness and freedom, and yet we attempt to get there through trying to change ourselves, struggling to alter who and what we are.  But struggling is the antithesis of what opens the way for us to awaken from the egoic state of consciousness."  (Falling into Grace, p.76)

If we want to move beyond the struggle to a sense of wholeness, Adyashanti says:  "All that's required is that you begin to notice that place within you that's not struggling...(the place of peace or joy or stillness)...Then just be quiet for a moment, and listen."  (Falling into Grace, p. 77)

I recently heard Rev. Carolyne Mathlin at Unity of Tustin speak about the same topic (Go to www.unitytustin.org if you want to hear the talk given on 10/21/12).  Rev. Carolyne referred to these conclusions that we hold as the lense through which we see our lives. Once we become aware of the lense that we are using, we will be more likely to notice when we are using it.

Rev. Carolyne suggests that whenever you find yourself in a situation where you are saying "When have I seen this before?" or "Here we go again" perhaps you are re-living your story.  Instead of unconsciously responding from the limited ego, you could move your awareness to the witness or a place of quiet within and ask  "How can I respond differently in this situation?"  Similarly, I have heard Adya ask "What wants to be said here?"

I have had a couple of situations arise this week that have tapped this worthiness issue for me.  I have been letting go of the struggle and sitting in the silence.  I will also notice how I can respond differently as situations arise.  I will keep you posted.