Tag: nonduality

Turiyatitta and the One-Electron Universe

A Journey into Nondual Oneness

As proposed by physicist John Archibald Wheeler, the concept of the one-electron universe suggests that every electron in the universe might be the same particle, traversing back and forth through time. This radical idea blurs the boundaries between individuality and unity, inviting profound contemplation on the nature of existence and consciousness.

Electrons, as identical entities, lack distinguishing features beyond their position and momentum, mirroring the fundamental principle of nonduality—the essence that underlies all forms is the same. The notion of a singular electron moving through time, creating the illusion of multiplicity, parallels the experience of Turiyatitta, the state of nondual suchness where the distinctions between self and other, subject and object, dissolve into a unified whole.

Turiyatitta, the fourth state of consciousness beyond waking, dreaming, and deep sleep, represents a transcendence of dualistic perception. This state aligns with the idea of the one-electron universe, where what appears as many is, in essence, one. The perceived separation between particles, events, and experiences collapses when viewed from the standpoint of timelessness, revealing a reality where all is interconnected and indivisible.

The spiritual peak experience of nondual suchness is akin to glimpsing the one-electron universe—an awareness that what seems fragmented and diverse is a manifestation of a singular, timeless presence. This insight challenges the ordinary perception of reality, encouraging a shift from seeing the world as a collection of separate entities to recognizing the seamless flow of existence.

Contemplating the one-electron universe invites a deeper understanding of Turiyatitta. It prompts reflection on the possibility that all experiences, all states of consciousness, are expressions of a single, underlying reality. Just as the electron moves through time, creating the appearance of multiplicity, consciousness flows through the spectrum of awareness, giving rise to the illusion of duality. Yet, at the core of this illusion lies the truth of oneness—a truth that becomes evident in the state of Turiyatitta.

Exploring the one-electron universe and its connection to nondual suchness encourages a re-evaluation of the boundaries between science and spirituality. Both realms point toward a deeper understanding of reality, one that transcends the limitations of time, space, and individual identity. Through this lens, the spiritual journey toward Turiyatitta can be seen as a movement toward recognizing the singular nature of existence, where all distinctions dissolve, and only the undivided whole remains.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Unraveling of the Self

Emotional and Mental Breakdowns During Spiritual Awakening

Introduction

The journey toward spiritual awakening often appears, from the outside, as a serene and enlightened path. Yet, for those who walk it, the experience can be anything but peaceful. Emotional and mental breakdowns are common, and they serve a profound purpose. These breakdowns are not merely unfortunate side effects but are integral to the transformation that takes place during spiritual awakening. Understanding why and how they occur sheds light on the deeply transformative nature of this journey.

The Dissolution of the Ego

At the heart of spiritual awakening lies the dissolution of the ego, the part of us that identifies with our thoughts, emotions, and external identities. The ego forms a protective shell around our innermost being, creating a sense of separation from the world and others. As spiritual awakening progresses, this shell begins to crack and dissolve. The breakdowns that occur during this process are the ego’s desperate attempts to hold onto the illusions it has created.

Emotional turmoil arises as old wounds, suppressed fears, and unresolved traumas surface. These are not new experiences; they are fragments of our psyche that have been buried deep within. The awakening process brings them to the surface, demanding that they be acknowledged, felt, and released. This can manifest as intense sadness, anger, or anxiety, often without a clear trigger. The breakdowns are not a sign of failure but a necessary purging of what no longer serves the soul’s evolution.

Mental Deconstruction

Alongside the emotional upheaval, there is often a mental breakdown that accompanies spiritual awakening. Our minds are accustomed to operating within the framework of duality—right and wrong, good and bad, self and other. As awakening deepens, this framework begins to disintegrate, leading to confusion, disorientation, and a sense of losing touch with reality.

The mind, which has always sought control through understanding and categorizing, now faces the incomprehensible. Concepts that once provided a sense of stability and security—such as time, identity, and purpose—start to unravel. This can feel like madness, as the mind struggles to find footing in a reality that no longer adheres to the rules it once knew.

However, this mental breakdown is a gateway to a higher understanding. It forces the individual to let go of the need to intellectually grasp the vastness of existence and instead invites them to surrender to the mystery of being. What emerges from this surrender is a more expansive awareness that transcends the limitations of the thinking mind.

The Purpose Behind the Breakdown

The emotional and mental breakdowns during spiritual awakening serve a profound purpose. They are not signs of weakness or instability but are essential phases of the journey. These breakdowns break open the rigid structures of the ego and the mind, allowing the true self to emerge. The pain and confusion are catalysts for shedding the old, making way for a new way of being.

In essence, these breakdowns are acts of grace. They strip away the false layers of the self, revealing the underlying essence that is interconnected with all of existence. Through the process of breaking down, one is rebuilt on a foundation of truth, love, and unity.

Navigating the Breakdown

For those experiencing these breakdowns, it’s important to understand that they are temporary and purposeful. Practicing self-compassion and seeking support from others who understand the journey can be invaluable. Meditation, grounding practices, and connecting with nature can also help stabilize the experience. Above all, embracing the breakdown as part of the awakening process allows for a more graceful passage through these intense phases.

When to Seek Extra Support

These breakdowns are not obstacles for most individuals. But there are cases where mental illness could be a factor and needs to be identified and not mistaken for the awakening process. Extra support and seeking professional help in these cases may be needed. They should never be avoided or spiritually bypassed. In some cases, spiritual practices should be avoided altogether, especially if they exacerbate the symptoms or lead to further confusion and distress. Understanding the difference between a spiritual crisis and a mental health issue is crucial, as neglecting the latter can lead to unnecessary suffering and hinder the healing process.

Conclusion

Spiritual awakening is not a gentle process; it is a profound upheaval that shakes the very core of our being. The emotional and mental breakdowns that occur are not obstacles but necessary steps in the dissolution of the old self. By understanding and embracing these breakdowns, one can move through them with greater ease, allowing the transformation they bring to unfold fully. In the end, what emerges from the ashes of the breakdown is a self that is more authentic, whole, and deeply connected to the essence of life itself.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Exponential Unfolding of Consciousness

From the Ego to the Infinite

The sequence 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64 etc is known as a geometric progression—a pattern where each term after the first is found by multiplying the previous one by a fixed, non-zero number. Each number is doubled in this case, creating an exponential growth that is not just a mathematical concept but a fundamental principle found throughout nature. This sequence is critical because it represents how small beginnings can lead to vast, expansive outcomes, demonstrating the power of exponential transformation. The same principle that drives population growth, the branching of trees, and the spiralling of shells can also be seen as a metaphor for the process of spiritual awakening. Just as nature uses geometric progression to unfold complexity and beauty, so too might our spiritual experiences expand as the mind transcends from the small “I” or ego into the vastness of collective consciousness, and ultimately into Consciousness itself.

At the outset, the mind identifies with the number 1. It is the small “I,” the ego, the center of an individual’s universe. This singular identity believes itself to be separate, and distinct from the world around it. The self sees itself as the subject in a world of objects, the thinker in a sea of thoughts, and the doer in a realm of actions. The ego stands alone, encapsulated within its boundaries, perceiving the world through a lens of duality.

But, as with the sequence, there comes a moment when the ego perceives something beyond its singular existence. It doubles into 2. This is the first awakening—a recognition that there is more to existence than just the self. The mind begins to sense its connection to others, the threads of interdependence that weave through the fabric of life. This is the initial glimpse into the collective consciousness.

As the mind continues to expand—4, 8—it begins to transcend the confines of the ego. The boundaries that once seemed so solid start to dissolve. The self no longer sees itself as merely an individual but as part of a larger whole, an integral part of the collective consciousness. This is the stage where the mind starts to perceive the unity underlying all diversity, recognizing that the separation it once clung to was an illusion.

The sequence continues—16, 32, 64—each step representing a deeper level of awareness, a more profound surrender to the truth of existence. The mind begins to transcend even the collective consciousness, moving towards the infinite, the realm of pure Consciousness. Here, the small “I” completely dissolves, and what remains is the recognition of being one with the entire universe, with the very essence of life itself.

This final stage of the sequence symbolizes the ultimate spiritual awakening. The mind has moved beyond the personal and the collective, into the boundless expanse of pure Consciousness. It is here that the true nature of reality is revealed—that there is no separation, no division, only the infinite play of Consciousness experiencing itself in myriad forms.

The journey from ego to infinite Consciousness is not just one of linear progression but of exponential transformation. Each doubling in the sequence represents a quantum leap in awareness, a step closer to the ultimate realization of nonduality. And just as the sequence could continue indefinitely, so too does the journey of spiritual awakening, for Consciousness is limitless, ever-expanding, and eternally evolving.

In reflecting upon this natural and spiritual process, we are reminded that the same patterns that govern the physical world may also govern our inner worlds. As nature grows and evolves, so too do we, propelled by the same forces of expansion, ever moving toward greater complexity, unity, and understanding. In this sense, the pattern found in the sequence 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64 is not just a mathematical curiosity but a universal truth, guiding us on our journey from the limited self to the infinite.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Silence Beyond Words

The Inexpressible Nature of Ultimate Truth

In a world populated by nearly eight billion souls, each one of us carries within the potential to encounter the ultimate truth, the absolute essence of reality that lies beyond the reach of ordinary perception. Yet, even if every individual were to experience this profound truth firsthand and attempt to articulate it through words, symbols, or metaphors, we would still find ourselves standing at the edge of an infinite abyss, gazing into a mystery that language cannot touch.

The challenge lies in the very nature of ultimate truth itself. It is not a concept that can be fully captured by thought, nor a phenomenon that can be neatly packaged into language constructs. Words are tools of the mind, shaped by dualistic thinking, and while they can point towards the truth, they inevitably fall short of embodying its essence. The absolute truth transcends all distinctions, including subject and object, observer and observed. It is a realization that obliterates the boundaries between self and other, time and timelessness, existence and non-existence.

When we attempt to speak of this truth, we find ourselves constrained by the limits of our minds. No matter how profound, each interpretation remains a reflection of the observer’s perspective—an individual prism through which the light of truth is refracted. The truth itself, however, is like pure light, beyond the colours it produces when passed through different lenses. Every articulation of truth, therefore, is not the truth itself, but a facet, a glimmer, a hint of the infinite.

The spiritual journey, then, is not about defining or grasping the ultimate truth in terms of intellectual understanding. Instead, it is about surrendering to the experience of that which cannot be defined. It is about allowing the mind to rest in the silence that follows the realization that no word, no thought, no image can ever encompass the vastness of the ultimate.

In this silence, we encounter the truth directly—not as something to be explained, but as something to be lived. It is the truth that reveals itself in the spaces between thoughts, in the stillness of the heart, and the quietude of being. It is the presence that pervades all things, yet remains unseen, the substratum of reality that gives rise to all forms and yet is untouched by them.

Ultimately, the recognition of this truth calls us to a different way of being in the world. It invites us to dwell in the mystery, to embrace the unknown, and to live from a place of deep humility and reverence for the ungraspable nature of reality. In doing so, we align ourselves with the flow of life itself, moving beyond the need to categorize or control, and instead, opening to the boundless, ineffable reality that is always here, always now.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Infinite Horizon of Oneness

My Journey Through Totality and Nonduality

In a moment that defied the limits of ordinary perception, I found myself immersed in an experience of totality—a direct encounter with the boundless essence of oneness and nonduality. This journey wasn’t merely a philosophical concept or a fleeting glimpse; it was a profound, visceral experience that transcended the boundaries of time, space, and individuality.

As I delved into this state, I was enveloped by the overwhelming presence of all feelings and emotions. It was as if the entire spectrum of human experience was laid bare before me, each emotion coexisting in a harmonious yet intense interplay. Joy and sorrow, love and fear, peace and turmoil—all were present, all were real, and all were part of a unified whole. There was no separation, no fragmentation, just a continuous flow of pure emotional energy.

This immersion into the ocean of emotions was not chaotic, but rather, it revealed the intricate interconnectedness of all feelings. I realized that each emotion, no matter how contrasting, was a necessary expression of the same underlying essence. It was a profound lesson in acceptance and understanding, teaching me that to embrace one’s full humanity is to honour every aspect of our emotional being.

Yet, the journey did not stop there. I was drawn deeper, into an experience of all egos and senses of self throughout the entire universe. This was not just a merging with the collective consciousness of humanity; it extended to all life forms, transcending the Earth and reaching into the farthest corners of the cosmos. I became acutely aware of the diverse perspectives, thoughts, and experiences of every being. The individuality of each life form dissolved into a singular, expansive awareness.

In this state, I no longer perceived myself as a separate entity. The notion of “I” expanded infinitely, encompassing all beings, and all existences. I was simultaneously every person, every creature, every consciousness. The interconnected web of life was not just a concept; it was my reality. I experienced the joys and sufferings, the triumphs and struggles of all beings as my own. This collective consciousness revealed the profound unity that underlies the apparent diversity of life.

This journey through totality and oneness has profoundly transformed my understanding of self and existence. It has dissolved the illusion of separation and duality, revealing the inherent unity of all life. The experience has deepened my compassion and empathy, fostering a profound sense of connectedness with all beings.

In reflecting on this journey, I am reminded of the limitless potential within each of us to touch the universal essence. To experience totality is to transcend the boundaries of individual identity and to embrace the infinite oneness that we all share. It is a journey that beckons us to explore the depths of our being, to discover the unity that lies at the heart of existence, and to live with a profound sense of interconnectedness and purpose.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Philosophical Essence of Satan and God

I’ve been asked on occasion if I believe in the existence of Satan. My response is layered and nuanced. Philosophically, metaphorically, and symbolically, I acknowledge the concept of Satan, but I don’t subscribe to the personified version of Satan or a devil that is meant to be taken literally. To me, such a belief is irrational. Instead, Satan symbolizes everything evil or negative within the human experience.

Now, one might ask if I believe in God. My answer, while seemingly at the opposite extreme, follows a similar logic. From a literal standpoint, I don’t believe in God as a distinct entity. Rather, I assert that everything in existence is God, including myself, you, everyone, and everything else. This understanding stems from my awakening, which I claim to be a profound truth (though my interpretation of this truth is limited). In essence, God is the absolute—everything in and out of existence.

Religions like Christianity often refer to God as the alpha and the omega, the beginning and the end. If everything is God, then does this include Satan? My answer is unequivocally yes. According to certain texts, God created Satan, formerly known as Lucifer, who was God’s perfect angel. Some might argue that God created Lucifer, but Lucifer isn’t God. To this, I pose a series of questions.

If God created Lucifer, what did God make Lucifer out of? You might say pure light. But what is light made of? Oscillating electric and magnetic fields. Are these fields the alpha and the omega? No. So, what are oscillating electric and magnetic fields made of? Electromagnetic waves. Are electromagnetic waves the alpha and the omega? Again, no. What are electromagnetic waves made from? We can trace this down to the concept of emergent space-time.

Is emergent space-time the alpha and the omega, the beginning and the end? If we consider God as the absolute, then it must be. If emergent space-time is equivalent to God, then at its essence, Lucifer is made out of God. Even if you adhere to the idea that God made Lucifer ex nihilo (out of nothing), and if God is absolute, then this must include nothing (preceding emergent space-time itself). Thus, God encompasses both everything and nothing.

In this holistic view, the existence of Satan and the nature of God merge into a singular, all-encompassing reality. This perspective encourages us to transcend literal interpretations and embrace a deeper, more integrated understanding of existence, where all dichotomies dissolve into the absolute.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Dissolution of the “I”

A Journey Beyond Self

In the quiet moments of our existence, we often find ourselves pondering the nature of identity and consciousness. What does it mean to truly know oneself? How can we navigate the complex interplay of ego and essence? These questions have occupied the minds of mystics and philosophers for millennia, yet they remain as relevant today as ever.

At the heart of these inquiries lies a profound realization: the dissolution of the “I.” This moment of enlightenment is not merely an intellectual understanding but a visceral, transformative experience. It is a point where the sense of self, the familiar “I” that anchors our daily lives, dissolves into something far greater and more expansive.

In this state, the boundaries that define our individuality blur and eventually vanish. The distinctions between self and other, inner and outer, become meaningless. This dissolution is not an annihilation but a return to the source—a reabsorption into the universal consciousness from which all things arise.

This experience is often described as a merging with pure awareness, where the perceiver and the perceived become one. It is a space where all dualities collapse, leaving only the pure presence of being. Here, there is no longer a separate observer; the “I” that once clung to its identity dissolves within itself, recognizing that it was never separate from the whole.

Such a realization can be both liberating and disorienting. The dissolution of the “I” challenges our deepest assumptions about who we are and what reality is. It invites us to embrace the paradox that while we appear as individuals, we are simultaneously the entirety of existence experiencing itself. This shift in perception allows for a deeper connection with the world, fostering a sense of unity and compassion that transcends the limited scope of personal concerns.

Yet, this journey is not without its challenges. The ego, with its myriad attachments and identifications, often resists this dissolution. It fears the loss of control, the end of its narrative. But in letting go, we do not lose ourselves; rather, we find our true essence—a boundless, infinite presence that is the very ground of being.

In this realization, life takes on a new dimension. Every moment becomes a manifestation of the infinite, every interaction a dance of the divine. The dissolution of the “I” is not an endpoint but a continuous unfolding, a deepening into the mystery of existence. It is an invitation to live from a place of profound openness and love, to see the world through the eyes of the infinite.

As we navigate this journey, let us remember that the dissolution of the “I” is not an escape from reality but a deeper engagement with it. It is a call to awaken to our true nature and to recognize the sacredness of all life. In this space, we find the freedom to be fully present, fully alive, and fully ourselves—beyond the limitations of the ego, in the infinite expanse of pure being.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Quantum Dance of Consciousness

Bridging Absolute Monism and Superposition

In the vast expanse of human experience and scientific inquiry, there are moments when disparate realms converge, revealing profound insights into the nature of reality. One such convergence is the spiritually enlightened peak experience of absolute monism and the quantum phenomenon of superposition. This intersection invites us to explore a deeper, more integrated understanding of existence.

The Experience of Absolute Monism

Imagine a moment of profound stillness, where the boundaries that define you dissolve, and the illusion of separation fades away. In this state, you experience a boundless unity, a seamless oneness with all that is. This is the essence of absolute monism—a direct, transformative experience that reveals the interconnectedness of all existence. It is a realization that transcends intellectual understanding, touching the core of being and altering one’s perception of reality.

Superposition in Quantum Physics

Quantum physics, the realm of the very small, offers a striking parallel to this mystical experience. Superposition is a principle where a quantum system exists in multiple states simultaneously until it is observed. This phenomenon challenges our classical notions of a fixed, definite reality, suggesting instead a universe that is inherently probabilistic and interconnected. The act of observation plays a crucial role in collapsing these multiple possibilities into a single, observable state.

Bridging the Spiritual and the Scientific

At first glance, the realms of spiritual enlightenment and quantum physics might seem worlds apart. Yet, they both point toward a deeper, underlying unity. In absolute monism, the dissolution of duality reveals an undivided reality. Similarly, in quantum physics, superposition reflects a state of potentiality where all possibilities coexist.

The Role of Observation

In the spiritual journey, the realization of absolute monism often emerges through deep meditation or transformative experiences. This form of “observation” collapses the illusion of separateness, unveiling the unity of existence. In quantum mechanics, it is the act of measurement that collapses a superposition into a definite state. Both suggest that consciousness or awareness plays a pivotal role in shaping reality.

Indeterminacy and Unity

The indeterminate nature of superposition aligns with the spiritual insight that ultimate reality transcends fixed forms and definitions. Both perspectives invite us to embrace a more fluid and interconnected understanding of existence. They challenge us to move beyond rigid, binary thinking and to appreciate the complexity and beauty of a reality that is both unified and diverse.

Transformation of Perception

Experiencing absolute monism can profoundly transform how we perceive ourselves and the world. It fosters a sense of unity, compassion, and interconnectedness. Similarly, understanding superposition can expand our perception of the physical world, challenging classical assumptions and inviting us to explore the mysteries of the quantum realm.

Conclusion

The convergence of absolute monism and superposition offers a rich, thought-provoking perspective on the nature of reality. It reminds us that the boundaries between science and spirituality are not as rigid as they seem. Both realms, in their own ways, point toward a deeper truth—a universe where unity, interconnectedness, and the role of consciousness are fundamental. By exploring these intersections, we embark on a journey that not only broadens our understanding but also deepens our appreciation for the profound mysteries of existence.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Dance of Awareness

Contextual vs. Content Enlightenment

In the labyrinth of spiritual exploration, the nuanced differences between contextual and content enlightenment invite us to delve deeper into our understanding of consciousness. These dimensions, though intertwined, offer distinct perspectives on our journey toward self-realization. Let us explore the intricate play between whole and detailed awareness, qualities and their absence, and the dichotomy of shape and form versus the formless.

Contextual Enlightenment: Embracing the Whole

Contextual enlightenment transcends the specifics, inviting us to embrace the entire spectrum of existence as a unified whole. It is akin to perceiving the vast, boundless ocean rather than focusing on individual waves. This level of awareness envelops all experiences, thoughts, and sensations, recognizing their interconnectedness and the underlying unity.

In this sense, whole awareness is the recognition of the seamless fabric of reality. It dissolves the boundaries that separate the observer from the observed, the thinker from the thought. It is an expansive, inclusive state where everything is perceived as part of a larger, harmonious cosmic dance.

Content Enlightenment: The Beauty of Details

In contrast, content enlightenment delves into the specifics, illuminating each moment’s unique qualities and characteristics. It is the meticulous study of individual waves within the ocean, appreciating their distinct forms and patterns. This awareness sharpens our focus on the particulars, allowing us to see the intricacies and subtleties that compose the whole.

Detailed awareness is the keen observation of the myriad expressions of existence. It celebrates the diversity of forms, experiences, and sensations, recognizing their intrinsic value and beauty. This level of enlightenment encourages us to engage deeply with the present moment, savouring each nuance and detail.

Qualities vs. Without Qualities: The Essence of Being

The dichotomy of qualities versus the absence of qualities highlights another layer of our spiritual journey. Qualities refer to the attributes and characteristics that define our experiences and perceptions. They are the colours, textures, and flavours of our existence, shaping our understanding of reality.

Without qualities, however, points to a deeper, more subtle aspect of being. It is the state of pure awareness, devoid of any specific attributes or characteristics. This formless essence transcends the dualities of good and bad, pleasure and pain, presence and absence. It is the unmanifest potential from which all qualities arise and dissolve.

Shape and Form vs. The Formless: The Ultimate Paradox

Finally, the interplay between shape and form versus the formless presents the ultimate paradox of our spiritual exploration. Shape and form represent the tangible, perceivable aspects of existence. They are the visible, audible, and tactile manifestations of the underlying reality.

The formless, on the other hand, is the primordial ground of being. It is the unchanging, eternal essence that transcends all forms and shapes. This paradox invites us to see beyond the apparent duality, recognizing that shape and form are but temporary expressions of the formless. In this realization, we find the unity of all existence, the seamless flow between the manifest and the unmanifest.

Conclusion

In our quest for enlightenment, we are called to navigate these intricate dimensions of awareness. Contextual enlightenment invites us to embrace the whole, while content enlightenment beckons us to appreciate the details. The play of qualities and their absence, and the dance between shape, form, and the formless, guide us toward a deeper understanding of our true nature.

By holding these perspectives in balance, we can cultivate a holistic, integrated awareness that honours both the unity and diversity of existence.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Profound Simplicity of Enlightenment

Transforming Perspective, Not Action

In the spiritual awakening journey, there is a well-known saying: “Before enlightenment, chop wood, carry water. After enlightenment, chop wood, carry water.” This aphorism captures the essence of a profound transformation that occurs not in the realm of actions but in the realm of perception.

Before enlightenment, we engage with the world through a dualistic lens. Wood is simply wood, and water is merely water. Our actions are routine, grounded in the practical necessities of life. We chop wood to build fires, and we carry water to quench our thirst. The world is divided into distinct entities and tasks, each with its purpose and function.

However, with the dawning of enlightenment, a radical shift in perspective occurs. Once seen as separate objects, the wood and water are now perceived as the divine. Every action, whether chopping wood or carrying water, becomes an act of communion with the sacred. The distinction between the doer and the deed dissolves, revealing the inherent unity of all existence.

This newfound vision unveils a profound truth: God is not a distant, separate entity but is every aspect of the universe. The wood we chop, the water we carry, the tools we use, and even the hands that perform these actions are not only expressions of the divine but are the divine. This realization transforms mundane tasks into sacred rituals, imbued with deep reverence, interconnectedness and beyond.


The environment in which these actions take place also becomes a sacred space. The forest where we gather wood, the river from which we draw water, and the air we breathe are all seen as the divine presence. Every element of our surroundings is woven into the fabric of oneness, blurring the lines between the individual and the cosmos.

This shift in perspective does not alter the actions themselves. We still chop wood and carry water, fulfilling the same physical tasks as before. Yet, the awareness that everything is as is infused these actions with a sense of purpose and meaning that transcends the ordinary.

In this enlightened state, the simplicity of life is revealed in its most profound form. Each moment becomes an opportunity to experience the divine, to engage in a continuous dialogue with the universe. The mundane is elevated to the extraordinary, and every action becomes an expression of love and devotion.


Ultimately, enlightenment is not about escaping the world or renouncing our daily responsibilities. It is about transforming our perception, recognizing the sacredness in every aspect of life, and understanding that we are the intricate, divine dance. By embracing this perspective, we find a deeper sense of peace and fulfillment, knowing that every action, no matter how simple, is an act of communion with the divine, as the divine.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith