Have you ever felt stuck in your own thoughts, unable to connect with the world around you? Imagine if you could just sit back, relax, and let the world unfold without feeling overwhelmed. This is what awareness is all about – being present and fully engaged in the moment.
Think of it like this: If you’re always focused on self-improvement and achieving goals, you might end up burning out. On the other hand, if you’re constantly lost in deep thoughts about your inner self, you might miss out on the joys of everyday life. The key is to find a balance between the two.
Bentinho Massaro talks about this in his teachings. He suggests that we need a mix of self-realization and self-actualization. This means being aware of your inner self while also actively engaging with the world.
For example, consider a person who’s always striving for success. They might achieve a lot, but without a sense of inner peace, they could feel empty inside. On the other hand, someone who’s always meditating and exploring their inner self might feel calm, but they might not achieve much in the outside world.
So, how can you find this balance? Start by taking a deep breath and letting go of your thoughts for a moment. Allow yourself to be fully present and notice the world around you. This simple act of awareness can bring a sense of peace and clarity.
As you practice awareness, you’ll find that you can engage with the world more effectively. You’ll have the endurance and stability to pursue your goals without burning out. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy the simple pleasures of life without getting lost in your thoughts.
In the Bible, there’s a verse that captures this idea: “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). This reminds us that by being still and present, we can connect with a deeper sense of peace and understanding.
In conclusion, awareness is like a bridge that connects your inner self with the outer world. By finding a balance between self-realization and self-actualization, you can live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Dive Deeper – Navigating Complexity with Joy and Awareness: A Guide to Spiritual Growth
Quote: “Awareness is the key to a balanced and fulfilling life.” – Bentinho Massaro
Bible/Spiritual References
“Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10
“When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.” – Lao Tzu (This speaks to releasing limited self-concepts and opening to greater possibilities.)
“The one who sees inaction in action and action in inaction, he is wise among men.” – Bhagavad Gita (This highlights the wisdom of witnessing and non-attachment, even when fully engaged in life.)
Understanding “I am this” and Awareness
Most of us primarily identify with the “I am this” – our body, mind, and personality within the world. We think we are this limited being. But if we relax, let go of thoughts and beliefs, and just be, we touch upon a deeper awareness – a spaciousness that witnesses everything.
This awareness is always present, like a container for all experience. Even amidst life’s fluctuations, it remains untouched and unwavering. It has the potential to infuse and illuminate our whole existence.
Summary Points
- Awareness is Key: True spiritual growth involves understanding the nature of awareness, the spaciousness that observes our thoughts, feelings, and the world around us.
- The Trap of “I am this”: Our usual identification with the body and mind creates a sense of limitation and separation.
- Awareness and Manifestation: Empowerment comes from both recognizing our deeper nature (self-realization) AND engaging actively with life’s experiences and goals.
- Beyond Limitations: We have the potential to transcend the limited “I am this” and experience the vast awareness that infuses all of creation.
Actions:
- Practice Stillness: Take a few minutes each day to simply relax, let go of thoughts, and just “be”. Observe any sense of spacious awareness that arises without trying to control it.
- Question “I am this”: When you say “I am (tired/angry/happy)”, pause and ask yourself: Is there also a part of me that simply witnesses these changing experiences?
- Inquire into Awareness: Notice what is always present, no matter what is happening. Explore the feeling that “something” is aware of your body, your thoughts, and the world around you.
- Integrate: Look for ways to bring a sense of awareness into your daily activities and goal-setting. Notice how this shift in perspective enhances your actions.