Awareness Before Thought: Finding the Core of Your Being
In our busy lives, we often find ourselves running on autopilot, responding to the world around us without much thought. We assume that the cashier at the grocery store, the gas station, and everything else we encounter are independently real. But what if we paused and asked ourselves: who are we before these thoughts and assumptions?
Awareness before thought is about connecting with that stable, changeless essence within us—the sense of “I am” that exists before any thought. This core of our being is always present, but we often overlook it as we get caught up in our daily activities and interactions.
The State of Assumption
When we operate on autopilot, we’re in a state of assumption. We assume the reality of the world around us and our place in it. However, these assumptions are based on our thoughts and perceptions, not on an inherent truth. Practical thinking and everyday tasks require some level of assumption, but the real challenge lies in how we view ourselves in relation to others and the world.
Increasing Awareness
To break free from these assumptions, we need to heighten our awareness. By focusing on the “I am” before thought, we start to dissolve the mind’s assumptions about the world. The more we turn our awareness inward, the less power our mind has to project independent existence onto things. This shift in perception can lead to a profound sense of peace and clarity.
Quieting the Mind
As we quiet our minds, we begin to see the world differently. The sense of an independently existing world fades, and with it, our worries and concerns. When we experience this state, even for a moment, we feel a deep sense of relief and inner peace. This is because our true nature, which is blissful and content, starts to shine through.
The Power of Inner Guidance
Trusting our inner guidance over external influences is crucial. When we rely on our most profound sense of resonance—what feels truly good—we align ourselves with our true nature. This inner guidance leads us away from the illusions of the world and towards a deeper understanding of ourselves and our connection to the divine.
The Spiritual Journey
This journey of turning the brightness up on our inner awareness and down on the external world requires practice and dedication. It involves creating intentional spaces for meditation, contemplation, and connection with the divine. In doing so, we can maintain a profound recognition of our true nature, even in the midst of our everyday lives.