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originally posted by: LesMisanthrope
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I see no merit to this choice of metaphors. A new, more honest metaphorical and mythological account of spirituality must be devised, one that touches closer to the truth. I think "trying a new hobby" or "imagining" might be more apt than "travelling into levels" and "exploring new territory". You are literally doing the opposite of travelling. You are litterally doing the exact opposite of exploring. You are not searching, following paths, or advancing forward in any shape or form, and I think it gives a bad name to true explorers and travellers. To sit down, close the eyes, and assert that I am travelling and exploring is beyond contradiction. There is nothing harrowing nor adventerous about it. Is this idea a metaphor for something, or a lie? I do not understand why we cannot call it what it is—retreat, resignation, falling-backwards, hiding, sleeping, hibernation, closing the senses, uninterestedness.
They are charitable and charming and seemingly indifferent to what others think of them.
originally posted by: LesMisanthrope
a reply to: bb23108
The heart yearns for union with reality - and this yearning drives the individual to seek such union in an endless variety of ways - from physical union to mystical union to divine union. None of this seeking works because union with reality is already the case. No other world than the one we appear in now is necessary - reality is as present here as anywhere.
I have to agree. I think it should be admitted, however, that most of reality is found outside, with very little of it found within. No so called inner-worlds would exist without something outside to relate to.
originally posted by: LesMisanthrope
a reply to: TzarChasm
I would save the immigrant family because there are more of them.
Meditation does not lead to these lifestyle choices, to nicer apartments, to career choices, and it almost sounds like you're going to sell me The Secret after, and I can show you meditating ascetics to prove this. Not only that, but non-spiritual people accomplish these feats just as easily, and perhaps are even more inclined to do so.
originally posted by: Itisnowagain
This is it, it couldn't be any different and no one is doing it.
Not a popular message for a identified person because he wants to exist.
This is dying while alive.
Seeing through the illusion of the I.
Paul Smit.
For what purpose? You say 'it must be transcended' for what result or goal are you thinking is at the 'end'?
originally posted by: bb23108
This must be transcended as well and that requires great discipline, adherence and surrender to reality itself. Few show these signs.
originally posted by: Itisnowagain
You say 'it must be transcended' for what result or goal are you thinking is at the 'end'?
originally posted by: bb23108
It is a case of mind trying to abstract from the body. They see the body as a problem that must be escaped.
originally posted by: Itisnowagain
a reply to: bb23108
Ok. But what is it supposed to change or make better? What way do you expect them to walk?