Character

[Iamit]

What are we to make of our personalities (character) in the light of "There are no others", a very popular nondual reference? as well as "There is no-one" ?

One possible response is that they were formed by mind for defensive purposes in the face of condemnation/punishment. This is not to say that they need to be overcome in some way! Far from it for the dynamics producing them may still be in play. To what extent are we aware that they are constructions for defensive purposes, purely functional like any other tools for existance?

They take energy to keep in place and mind will be monitoring the need for them as we experience and change. There are signs to tell us what the details of the constructions are. For example, the characteristics we find unacceptable in others are probably projections of those we have been conditioned (condemnation/punishment) to regard as unacceptable in ourselves. The more we are aware of this dynamic, the less likely we are to condemn others and be outraged and offended by them for holding views we disagree with.

:)

[Ground]

I do not envy you. But I regret those who are on your path. Somehow it is funny since I use to proclaim not to be buddhist when being among buddhists but when being faced with views like yours I feel like a buddhist.

[Iamit]

Originally Posted by Ground

I do not envy you. But I regret those who are on your path. Somehow it is funny since I use to proclaim not to be buddhist when being among buddhists but when being faced with views like yours I feel like a buddhist.

I am not presenting an argument against that sort of projection or the Ego, because the dynamics which created it may still be in place so you need that defense, but if you were aware that you are projecting aspects of your own character when condemning others, life would be less dramatic/traumatic for you. For the defense to be effective you do not have to be unaware of it.

[naturesflow]

Originally Posted by Iamit

What are we to make of our personalities (character) in the light of "There are no others", a very popular nondual reference? as well as "There is no-one" ?

One possible response is that they were formed by mind for defensive purposes in the face of condemnation/punishment. This is not to say that they need to be overcome in some way! Far from it for the dynamics producing them may still be in play. To what extent are we aware that they are constructions for defensive purposes, purely functional like any other tools for existance?

I like your thoughts and question.

They take energy to keep in place and mind will be monitoring the need for them as we experience and change. There are signs to tell us what the details of the constructions are. For example, the characteristics we find unacceptable in others are probably projections of those we have been conditioned (condemnation/punishment) to regard as unacceptable in ourselves. The more we are aware of this dynamic, the less likely we are to condemn others and be outraged and offended by them for holding views we disagree with.

Yes indeed. Owning the whole lot. Tis hard for some to do when they are still stuck in the need to condemn the external world for how it all feels in them. Peace can work in everyway we are and looking, noticing and feeling.

[Arrowahn]

Thank you :)