There is an appearance of multiplicity. But behind the appearance are clues pointing to oneness. . .

Tuesday, October 16, 2007

What are Self-Realization, Awakening, Liberation, and Enlightenment?


It’s helpful to realize that enlightenment and awakening are just concepts and do not exist as states that can be attained. Believing in the ideas of awakening or enlightenment keeps you on the path of seeking and suffering. Waiting for an "a-ha" experience or an experience of "I get it now," will also keep you on the path of seeking and suffering. All there is, is this. Right here, right now. This is it. There’s truly nothing to gain.

If you’re frustrated and experiencing psychological suffering, there’s an underlying belief that there’s something other than what is here and now, and there’s a belief that you exist as a separate, controlling entity or ego who can exercise his will to attain something better or different than what is here and now. There is no way to avoid what is here and now—happiness, sadness, anger, joy, peace or frustration. There is no way to grasp onto the pleasant experiences or avoid the unpleasant. You do not exist as a separate, controlling entity who can exercise control over your experience. - Stephen Wingate

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