In the vast landscape of spirituality, there are countless methods and techniques to explore. However, at the heart of it all, there are two fundamental approaches that stand out: focus and surrender. These are not just strategies, but deeply ingrained attitudes that can guide us through the ups and downs of our spiritual journey.
Let’s start with the concept of focus, which is often associated with the more masculine aspect of the spiritual path. Imagine you’re in a state of emotional turmoil, where everything feels chaotic and none of the usual spiritual techniques seem to work. In these moments, the practice of focus becomes your lifeline. By harnessing your will and directing your attention, you can create a sense of stability and clarity amidst the chaos. This is not about controlling your thoughts but about gently guiding them back to a point of focus, whether it be your breath, a mantra, or simply the act of being present.
On the other hand, surrender, which is often seen as the more feminine approach, is about letting go and trusting in the flow of life. It’s about releasing the need to control and allowing yourself to be guided by a higher power. In times of struggle, when focusing seems too difficult, surrendering can be a powerful act of faith. It’s a reminder that you are not alone in your journey and that there is a greater force at work.
Both focus and surrender are essential components of the spiritual path. They are like two sides of the same coin, each supporting and enhancing the other. By cultivating these attitudes, you can navigate the complexities of your spiritual journey with grace and resilience.
Now, let’s take a moment to practice. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and relax your body. Choose a point of focus, whether it’s your breath, your heart, or any other part of your body. Allow yourself to be fully present in this moment, letting go of any distractions. Feel the power of your focus, the quiet strength that comes from being centered and grounded. Now, gently release your focus and surrender to the moment. Trust in the flow of life, knowing that you are supported and guided.
In this practice, you can see how focus and surrender work together. By focusing, you create a sense of stability, and by surrendering, you open yourself up to the guidance of the universe. This is the essence of the spiritual path, a dance between effort and ease, between doing and being.
In the words of the spiritual teacher Bentinho Massaro, “When [things] hit the fan, and you don’t know what to do, [remember] the core attitude of honoring the Creator, remembering that you are God, that there is no need for thought, that you don’t have to go out, you can just boom, focus. That’s the core attitude of gathering your will.”
As you continue on your spiritual journey, remember the power of focus and surrender. These are not just techniques to be used in times of trouble, but foundational attitudes that can guide you in every moment of your life.
Dive Deeper – Transforming Suffering Through Surrender
Quote: “When things hit the fan, and you don’t know what to do, remember the core attitude of honoring the Creator, remembering that you are God, that there is no need for thought, that you don’t have to go out, you can just boom, focus. That’s the core attitude of gathering your will.” – Bentinho Massaro
Spiritual Reference: “Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10 (Bible)
Summary Points
- Life is unpredictable: Expect both smooth times and challenging ‘storms’.
- Two core paths: Surrender and focus are both valid spiritual tools for confronting difficulties.
- Surrender: Dropping control, accepting the present moment, and acknowledging a higher power.
- Focus: Cultivating stillness amidst chaos by focusing on the act of being focused, finding the ‘eye of the storm’.
Inspired Actions:
- Practice surrender: In difficult moments, let go of the need for control. Simply be present with the emotions and sensations without trying to change them.
- Train your focus: Practice focused meditation when you’re calm. This skill becomes invaluable in turbulent times. Find an anchor point (breath, a spot in the body) and return your attention to it whenever the mind wanders.
- Notice when one path works better: In some scenarios, surrender will feel easier. In others, you might find it beneficial to harness your focus and will.
- Remember: Both paths connect you to your spiritual core and a sense of inner stillness that provides resilience when life gets stormy.