I echo Kar. Good idea. Thanks, Orbie.
Let me think... light bulb moments...
*The meaning of spiritual feelings!
I've felt spiritual feelings since I was little & assumed it was a sign. I didn't realize it was me who was interpreting what that sign was.
Now I realize that although, sometimes we get spiritual direction, mostly such feelings are simply resonating with the divine within.
Reason goes hand-in-hand with interpreting & deciding how to act on spiritual inspiration.
"The kingdom of God is within." - God is not limited to a grandpa out in the Universe somewhere. God is much more - I don't even know, nor do I think I'll ever know what God is all about. But I do know that the realm or way I connect with God is within me.
*The key to peace & healing is to correct thinking. Thoughts precede symptoms of feelings & behavior. And thoughts are powerful!
*I realized that everything is an illusion... which freaked me out at first! I may not have let it completely sink in - because I enjoy illusions too much! I realize there is some truth within illusions, ironically. If I believe in a lucky charm & that belief makes me perform better - that belief in my lucky charm, though illusional, had true influence.
Often isolation is needed for a new start & greatness - as my friend suggested, maybe that's why we have illusions - to separate us from the truth of our divinity & of God, so that we can grow spiritually by developing muscles of faith & LOVE.
Some illusional beliefs are more productive than others.
Ironic... Everything's illusion, but beliefs are truly powerful! Spiritual progress seems to be harmonizing or a dance between coping illusional crutches & exploring truth.
*I came to understand better one of the most important "commandments" - or guides... "Love others as yourself."
I was taught only to love others... Those who sacrificed themselves, even treated themselves badly, so they could care for others, were praised.
Now I realize: When I love myself 1st, I love others better...
When I don't love myself - in thought & deed, I (& sometimes others) pay for it - in mental or physical health.
Love doesn't just mean pampering myself, or romantic kisses...
Love is desiring & striving for what's best (through trial & error).
Also, I am not commanded that others love me. Sometimes they don't - but not because I'm unlovable, but because "love depends on the lover." Whether someone is kind or rude, it's not because I deserve it, it's just a reflection of their inner world at that time. Likewise, how I interpret others' behavior depends on my inner world at the time.
When I love myself, I don't feel so desperate for others approval, & love seems to flow more freely to others.
These lighbulb moments came about with the help of others ... & I am still learning to internalize & apply them.
Linear Mode
