Light of the World
There is a light within you, a life force that gives you sentience. It’s the light of consciousness itself, illuminating both the experience of phenomena (the sensation of a summer breeze or the smell of warm chocolate chip cookies) and the experiencer (what we know as “me” or “I”) itself.
In some the Light shines brightly. We are attracted to these rare souls—we know their Light’s energy as our own Source. They make us feel alive and blessed. The Light within them brings peace, joy, and love.
In others, the Light is dim, overshadowed by darkness. Many things dim the Light: negative thoughts; destructive emotions like anger, hate, pride, fear, greed, and desire; ignorance; destructive ideologies; limiting beliefs. Repelled by this primitive energy, we find ourselves resisting their presence, preferring not to subject ourselves to this field.
Our journey is about learning to allow the Light within us to shine brightly. Simple to say yet difficult to do, representing a lifetime of inner work:
- Learn about your shadow so you’re not ruled by it. Notice when you’re projecting your shadow onto the world. When you’re upset because a friend is being stubborn, examine the stubbornness within yourself. The shadow is at work when we’re harboring resentments and grievances toward others.
- Utilize techniques that help transcend negative emotions that lay deep in the shadow. Techniques like emotional releasing and the Emotional Freedom Technique, and programs like the 12 Steps and A Course in Miracles can be tremendously helpful.
- Align with spiritual Truths. Notice that I didn’t say religious values. Spiritual Truths are universal, not restricted to ecclesiastic doctrines or scriptural teachings. Spiritual Truths include kindness toward others, forgiveness, gratitude, unconditional love, and surrendering to a Higher Power.
There’s no need to seek the Light; it’s always there. We need only uncover it, to step out of the shadows and let the Light shine forth.
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