The Choice of Consciousness: A Journey Within
The quote by The Mother, "You can will yourself to be conscious. Or you can let unconsciousness will you," invites us to reflect on the profound power of choice in our lives. It suggests that consciousness is not merely a passive state but an active endeavor that requires our will and intention. The stakes are high; to embrace consciousness is to engage fully with the world, while to succumb to unconsciousness is to drift through life, subject to external influences and internal turmoil. This dichotomy compels us to examine the nature of our awareness and the choices we make daily.
Delving deeper, we find that this quote encapsulates a fundamental aspect of the human experience: the interplay between will and consciousness. The Mother’s words resonate with the idea that we possess the agency to shape our awareness and, consequently, our reality. By choosing to cultivate consciousness, we align ourselves with a higher state of being, one that fosters growth, understanding, and connection. Conversely, allowing unconsciousness to dictate our lives leads to a disconnection from our true selves and the world around us, highlighting the importance of intentional living.
The image / the metaphor
The imagery in The Mother’s quote is striking, evoking a sense of agency and responsibility. The verbs "will" and "let" create a dynamic tension between active engagement and passive acceptance. To "will yourself to be conscious" suggests a deliberate act of awakening, a conscious effort to rise above the mundane and embrace a deeper understanding of oneself and the universe. In contrast, "let unconsciousness will you" portrays a surrender to the whims of the mind, where one becomes a mere spectator in their own life, subject to the influences of habit, fear, and distraction.
In the speaker's tradition
Within the framework of integral yoga, The Mother’s quote resonates deeply with the concepts of will and consciousness as pathways to spiritual evolution. Integral yoga emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the transformative power of conscious choice. This aligns with the notion of dharma, or one's true path, which requires clarity and intention to navigate effectively. The practice of kenosis, or self-emptying, further complements this idea, as it encourages individuals to release attachments and preconceived notions, allowing for a more profound connection to consciousness.
Moreover, The Mother’s teachings echo the Buddhist concept of sunyata, or emptiness, which invites practitioners to recognize the transient nature of thoughts and emotions. By cultivating awareness, one can transcend the limitations of the ego and embrace a more expansive understanding of existence. In her writings, The Mother often emphasizes the importance of inner work and the necessity of conscious effort in achieving spiritual growth, reinforcing the idea that our choices shape our spiritual journey.
Living the teaching
Consider a modern scenario where this teaching can be applied: a busy professional overwhelmed by the demands of work and life. In such a situation, the individual may find themselves operating on autopilot, reacting to stressors without conscious thought. By choosing to will themselves into a state of consciousness, they can pause, breathe, and reflect on their feelings and reactions. This intentional act of awareness allows them to respond more thoughtfully, fostering a sense of control and clarity amidst chaos.
Another application of this teaching can be found in interpersonal relationships. Imagine a moment of conflict with a loved one, where emotions run high, and unconscious patterns threaten to take over. By consciously choosing to engage with empathy and understanding, rather than reacting defensively, one can transform the interaction. This choice not only deepens the connection but also cultivates a shared space of awareness, allowing both individuals to navigate the challenge with grace and intention.
A reflection
As we contemplate The Mother’s profound words, we are invited to reflect on our own lives: In what areas are we allowing unconsciousness to dictate our choices? This question encourages us to examine the moments when we drift through life without intention, prompting a deeper inquiry into how we can cultivate a more conscious existence. By embracing the power of our will, we can embark on a transformative journey toward greater awareness and fulfillment.
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