Bodhi123

@Echoes I agree that @Flare gave solid advice. The last thing I will say is just know that you have the POWER to change your life. Please let this truth sink into you. If you want to travel then travel. If you want to complete your degree then further your education. Just know that you are the molder and shaper of your life.

@The Universe There is a saying that motivates me: "Do what you have to do, so you can do what you want to do" In life it is necessary that you have the ability to get stuff done even when you don't want to do it. Your level of self-discipline will largely determine how successful you are in your education, career, and other pursuits. Put in the work, no excuses.

@Venus I recommend the book. It is practical, insightful, research based, and powerful.

There is a saying, "Desperate times call for desperate measures"... which means RADICAL ACTION! In my opinion, now is not the time for practicality. I back the advice given by @jse Be brave... Take a leap of faith... Allow your life to change

I think you have it figured out, especially if you are describing direct experiences. Now the only question is how are you going to let your knowledge and insights shape your life going forward. From the sounds of it, you already know the answer. Much respect to you, sincerely.

Understood. Thank you for taking the time to respond.

@John Flores Thank you.

That's absolutely okay You found some value in her other words. You don't have to accept everything that she or any other person says.

Bro in my opinion your integration of the concepts: ego, no-self, and non-duality is accurate. Here's the thing though... it is all intellectual. When you have a direct experience of what you described... that is called enlightenment.

@John Flores I appreciate your response, but I must admit I'm still confused. I practice meditation as described by Rupert Spira, "Be knowingly being" How does "Be knowingly being" relate to your quote: I'm trying to make a connection

Can you please elaborate what you mean by this. This would help grow my understanding of meditation.

@LifeandDeath This video will probably be of interest to you.

@LifeandDeath I respect your honest effort to reconcile Christian and Buddhist teachings. I’ve been carrying out a similar process for myself. I think it is important to realize that all religious doctrines point to a Universal Truth. All religious doctrines have also added many layers of “fiction” on top of this Universal Truth. In my opinion it is wise to take the Truth and leave the rest behind. I hope your efforts bring you peace and understanding.

My takeaway... words are limited symbols used to express meaning. Lets seek to understand the meaning behind words.

Now for my serious response. I understand what you mean by the ego separates you from God. On this point I agree. My concern stems from all of the negative connotations attached to the word Devil… evil, wicked, horrible, malicious. If people misunderstand what you mean by “Ego = Devil” than can lead to serious self-hatred. I feel like the word “ego” is throwing a lot of people off.

Ego: The sense of being an individual self Outlook 1: The ego is the source of all suffering. It is an illusion that should be dispelled of as soon as possible. Outlook 2: To have an ego is the very purpose for our incarnation in this physical world. It is the means by which the Divine experiences itself. Which outlook do you hold?

You're a funny guy

I disagree. How can you honestly assert that Ego and Devil are the same thing? Please elaborate.

If not the ego, then what is it that motivates you? Honest question.

@Michael569 It is important for you to remember the saying, "You can't help those who won't help themselves." It is a hard saying to accept but it is the truth. Approach your mom from a place of compassion. If she feels like she is being judged or attacked she will resist what you say. If she feels like you care for her and have her best intentions in mind then she will be more receptive to what you say. Do your best to help your mom but remember your limitations. Also remember to take care of yourself.

I'm sorry that you feel this way. It must be difficult to be in this situation. It may be time to seek professional help; Given the fact that you've been mediating and doing shadow work for many years and yet the issue persists. There must be a root cause for your behavior that has yet to be identified. A psychologist can help identify this root cause and provide you with techniques to change your behavior. Take care.

Listen from 34:32 to 38:03 for a description of how “the Field” gives rise to all of creation. It is interesting that scientists and spiritual teachers give very similar explanations of reality. We should all let that sink in

I agree that both outlooks hold some truth. But it is important to be balanced. If all you do is seek enlightenment and in the process cut yourself off from the world, I think you missed the point of being alive. If you are too heavily identified with the ego then you will suffer. If you seek Truth and explore what the world has to offer… I think you just lived a good life.

This is by far my favorite motivational video. Please listen for inspiration to make a positive change in your life.

Happiness is the goal no matter where you are or how you live your life. Some people pursue a career and wealth in order to achieve happiness. Other people pursue sex and relationships for happiness. Other people seek out adventure and new experiences for happiness. Others seek enlightenment for happiness. There is nothing inherently wrong with having goals. Goals are needed to organize our lives and to give us a sense of purpose. The problems arise when we attach happiness to the attainment of goals. This is a problem because it implies unless we achieve our goals we are doomed to be unhappy. Another problem occurs when we achieve our goals and we’re still unhappy. It is like we’re a dog chasing our tail… even if we catch the tail we're still left chasing... The solution to this puzzle: Find happiness in the present moment no matter the circumstances Pursue your dreams with passion and vigor just don't attach your happiness to their attainment.