Howard

Thank you my friend

I realized that I have 0 creativity when it comes to developing a career. All I have ever known when it comes to careers is applying for jobs, and when I get the job, I just simply do what I am told. How do some of you find connections between what you are skilled at and what is relevant in the modern world, or finding ways to start a business revolved around something you are interested in?

I suggest you to study about Shaolin monks, it might give you some insights you are curious about. Discipline, consistency. Finding the middle path (not lifting something too easy when you are feeling lazy, not lifting something you can't lift to appear stronger) The challenges on the path is in your mind, not your body. Try learning something you might not be able to do so that you're not just lifting for physical attraction.... maybe doing an one arm pull up? The part where you don't get caught up your ego with your physical looks is something that will always be there.... It's the same with martial artists holding themselves back and letting things go when some punk they know they can easily beat up tries to start a fight.

I know. I'm just a little bit desperate in the moment lol. Do you have an experience to share on how you created the right conditions?

Does time exist? Is time linear?

I like digital art, but as far as my vision goes right now, is finding a company to work for.... I have interests in psychology and fitness/movement, but I am very passionate about spirituality/yogic/meditation culture.... still trying to figure out a way to bridge something together.... It doesn't have to be all of it.

It has happened to me before.

Experiences and perceptions are within the realms of cause and effect (time and space). How else are you going get insight into ultimate reality, which is “outside” the realm of cause and effect (time and space)? Without using a mirror, can an eyeball see itself? Or after seeing enough things “out there”, you come to a finding that it’s the eyeball that’s allowing it to see. So realization isn’t about the eyeball seeing something spectacular within its field of vision, but realizing it is itself that allows it to see.

Mentally labeling an experience isn't too much of an issue unless you over do it for every little thing. You could just mentally note/tap it once like "jealousy" and then move on. Remember you aren't noting it to make it go away. You are noting it just to note it.

When I am talking about love and awareness, I am not talking about 2 different things, but 2 aspects of the same "thing".

Is your approach to dance, drawing, and painting very technical and talent/skill is a major focus?

Hmm... I guess try asking yourself why the word "love" clicks for some people and not the word "awareness" and vice-versa.

You can change how you perceive the situation, which leads to you finding a better solution externally. Sometimes you just gotta talk to people, and they can share a different and more objective perspective. With the practice of mindfulness meditation, you can acquire this skill over the years, and you'll get better and better at it.

That was the one word that works for all. It's supposed to be a secret. You knew this when you were initiated.

Will there ever be a right word-the size that fits for all? Call it god, consciousness, emptiness, infinite, nature, universe, life, void, source, divine love, awareness, whatever, it could still lead to more debate and speculation.

There are 2 types of love, one is limited, one is infinite. The whole universe is love and a manifestation of love. A lot of individuals are experiencing the limited love (which leads to hate and greed) rather than the infinite love.

Best mantras, “it’s okay, let it be” and “I don’t know” to whatever thoughts and feelings that come. Give up the idea that you are your body. Why do you want to get enlightened anyway? Do you think your life will become easier and all your challenges will go away?

I guess the practice could bring us more to balance/middle path. Although there are many yogis and sannyasins who want to permanently kill out their want for sex. But for someone who isn't trying to kill it out completely, I can still see the help of reducing the drive.... Ironically, wanting sex too much can push potential sex partners away, reducing the opportunities of getting to have sex. That's very cool you cleared the discomfort with your body and sex giving birth to your body. Sadhguru spoke of this a numerous times.

I would suggest you to explore more active/movement types of practices. The main purpose of "Vipassana" is to help you see all your experiences (internal and external phenomena) as anicca/dukkha/anatta. So whatever you experienced, no matter how abnormal, is anicca/dukkha/anatta. Not sure if this is best thing to do. But if vipassana is your path, Maybe look into whether the fear of physical pain is anicca/dukkha/anatta, and the experience of physical pain itself is anicca/dukkha/anatta?

Very interesting. A lot of people have told me that their sadhana decreased their sex drive. However, for me, it has increased mine and made sex feel more pleasurable. Not going to complain about that.

Los Angeles

Thank you Nagarjuna lol

Over time, you will attract more people in your life who are into similar concepts and values as you. Friends, communities, romantic partners, etc.

I have a similar challenge. Journaling helps. Try explaining something you understand very well to someone who barely understands it, that should help too.

What happens to consciousness when you go to deep sleep? Do you assume yourself to be a body? And that consciousness is something inside the body?