What is the unconscious mind? First off, it is not a mind separate from our ordinary waking awareness. It is more like a mass of interacting processes working at different levels that influence and give rise to our consciousness. These processes are necessarily unavailable to our awareness. In fact, it has been shown that about 0.4 seconds before we are aware of any conscious decision, unconscious processes have already decided that outcome. [Read more…] about The Unconscious Mind
The I Ching
When I was about 17, I came across the Chinese classic, I Ching (John Blofeld’s Book of Change) and used it often to try and obtain a clear sense of direction in my adolescent life. I constructed a beautiful set of polished wood sticks (rather than the traditional yarrow stalks) and threw then to consult the oracle about life decisions. Even with my youthful superficial understanding, I was astonished by how accurate [Read more…] about The I Ching
Charter for Compassion
The principle of compassion lies at the heart of all religious, ethical and spiritual traditions, calling us always to treat all others as we wish to be treated ourselves. Compassion impels us to work tirelessly to alleviate the suffering of our fellow creatures, to dethrone ourselves from the centre of our world and put another there, and to honour the inviolable sanctity of every single human being, treating everybody, without exception, with absolute justice, equity and respect. [Read more…] about Charter for Compassion
Finding Your Life Purpose
We come into the world with and for a Purpose–or maybe a set of interlocking purposes. These purposes include the need to develop wholeness within ourselves and in our relationships and the drive to make a difference in the world. We discover our own uniqueness in order to make the most positive impact [Read more…] about Finding Your Life Purpose
Rhythm of Consciousness
Consciousness is a long wave coming and going, washing against the shores of our life, reminding us of who we are, then submerging us again in the depths of unawareness. We have no choice but to remember and forget, only to remember and forget again–at the mercy of the fragile flickering flame of awareness within us. [Read more…] about Rhythm of Consciousness
Spirituality in Everyday Life
Spirituality is an overarching attitude that values everything, including our selves and the universe, as ultimately meaningful and purposeful. Spiritual experience is fundamentally simple but difficult to maintain in our ordinary busy lives. The experience is fostered and maintained by a quiet mind and an open heart. [Read more…] about Spirituality in Everyday Life