Does acceptance lead to enlightenment? Does enlightenment lead to acceptance?

#1 20-07-2013, 07:14 AM

Are we ever really in control of circumstances that guide us? Or is control just an illusion? Maybe all that exists is synchronicity controlling fate and destiny.

lovingkind · #2 20-07-2013, 08:59 PM

There are many thoughts on this...we create our own reality as we are in control of what we believe, think and do. Many say that life is just an illusion. It is what we make it. Personally, I believe that we do always have a choice as to what we think, feel, do and react. Our reality is shaped by our environment, the people in it, our families/friends and our experiences. When we awaken and become aware of our existence we understand more of how things work. It is a different experience for everyone. Acceptance is important to awakening.

wstein · #3 21-07-2013, 01:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kimani

Are we ever really in control of circumstances that guide us? Or is control just an illusion? Maybe all that exists is synchronicity controlling fate and destiny.

This is a rephrase of the question of free will. It also is asking if we are somehow (co-)creators or just creations of some higher power. As far as I know, no one has a convincing answer on either question.

I don't see how these questions in any way relate to the topic about acceptance and enlightenment. Could you please clarify?

#4 21-07-2013, 04:42 AM

Does having an understanding of something make it easier to embrace a situation that occurs? Or is everything so random and chaotic that there is nothing to fully understand? Does life every really prepare you for what is to come?

wstein · #5 21-07-2013, 05:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kimani

Does having an understanding of something make it easier to embrace a situation that occurs?

It makes it simpler. Easier, yes to a point. However, if it is not in alignment with who you are, requires skills you don't possess, or you just don't like it then its not going to be easy.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kimani

Or is everything so random and chaotic that there is nothing to fully understand?

On a practical level, many things are understandable enough that you can functionally interact with them. In the bigger sense, a lot of things are not understandable at all. Perhaps all understanding is an illusion.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kimani

Does life every really prepare you for what is to come?

Occasionally it does. If you are lucky or have an excellent intuition then sometimes. Spirituality is in many senses is trying to prepare enough to get to those things to come. But in short, life has no directive to prepare you for anything.

Gem · #6 21-07-2013, 06:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kimani

Are we ever really in control of circumstances that guide us? Or is control just an illusion? Maybe all that exists is synchronicity controlling fate and destiny.

We have power over the circumstances, but very little control.

krishna · #7 21-07-2013, 11:54 AM

You all have the ability to take control of your lives.
Self belief and confidence are needed.
Be careful what you ask for.
In pure light and truth.

Jillibilli · #8 21-07-2013, 12:18 PM

You can never be sure of how you go.....
The Apple you bought may be rotten, it may be the best you ever had.
Own your choices and the outcome.
Love yourself
Above all love others

the_crow · #9 22-07-2013, 08:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kimani

Are we ever really in control of circumstances that guide us? Or is control just an illusion? Maybe all that exists is synchronicity controlling fate and destiny.

Control is the concept that is at odds with everything else.
One may never control anything, but one is part of everything, and so may influence outcomes.
Unless - like so many - one is not part of anything.
Then the need to control takes over.