Recognition or Realization is when one sees that one cannot possibly be a separate entity outside the ineffable essence that is all existence. This realization can be arrived at intellectually or experientially. Both are a form of knowledge. The experience of oneness or unity is a profound marker and is often life changing. However, the sense of unity usually passes and one is simply left with the knowledge "that this is so."
To me the witness is "the being awareness." In other words, the true witness is not a person, but impersonal consciousness. Awareness is the observer, no matter how personal an experience may be. Being awareness, outside of personhood, develops over time.
Yes, ultimately all is well and good, no matter how the person may feel at a given time. This knowledge lessens suffering. Identifying with awareness as opposed to the person also lessens suffering. There is also a sense that even though there appears to be personal choice, one knows that this is likely not the case. As Advaita says, "You are not doer." If this is so, feeling that one has choice is sort of irrelevant.
As awareness comes to the fore and ego recedes, the mind tends to quiet down. It need not be forced to do so. It will naturally subside. Who is left to defend when the person is surrendered to the Divine?
To me the witness is "the being awareness." In other words, the true witness is not a person, but impersonal consciousness. Awareness is the observer, no matter how personal an experience may be. Being awareness, outside of personhood, develops over time.
Yes, ultimately all is well and good, no matter how the person may feel at a given time. This knowledge lessens suffering. Identifying with awareness as opposed to the person also lessens suffering. There is also a sense that even though there appears to be personal choice, one knows that this is likely not the case. As Advaita says, "You are not doer." If this is so, feeling that one has choice is sort of irrelevant.
As awareness comes to the fore and ego recedes, the mind tends to quiet down. It need not be forced to do so. It will naturally subside. Who is left to defend when the person is surrendered to the Divine?
2 comments:
Could then the simple ability to watch one's thoughts, for example in early mindfulness practice, be the the discovery of the personal sense of 'I am', that the practitioner does not yet realise they have found, and this therefore is the first step towards an experience of the "being awareness", even though it may be a long and winding road to reach that stage?
Very well stated Maury.
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