Awakening is more Process than Event

The process of awakening is the steady removal/unwinding of the conditioned patterns/habits of our minds

2 min read

We are not ‘asleep’ one moment, learn or experience something, and then in the next moment are ‘awake’.
Generally-speaking, it does not happen like that.

The process of awakening is the steady removal/unwinding of the conditioned patterns/habits of our minds, such as; erroneous beliefs, selfish ego, desires and aversions, traumas and fears, and other limitations and blocks.
These patterns are called samskaras in Yoga.
This process takes time, lifetimes even.
We do our daily work, without seeking particular outcomes, and move steadily and surely forwards.
Sometimes perhaps even falling backwards.

For the dedicated and committed practitioner there may well be, at times, big jumps, quantum leaps even, of personal evolution.
We may pass recognised “landmarks” on the spiritual path, such as a kundalini opening or an experience of samadhi.
Yet even such a “big” experience, shift or realisation, lasting perhaps moments (measured in “normal time”), may take years to fully integrate, and does not necessarily signify the end of the road.

For the committed conscientious practitioner success is guaranteed.

Thus, orient yourself towards the goal, and step forwards. The path is long, we move forwards and upwards step by step.

References;

“Drop by drop is the water pot filled.
Likewise, the wise man, gathering it little by little, fills himself with good.”

Buddha Sidhartha Gotama
Dhammapada IX 121

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