Every day is an Initiation
​In a traditional ordinary mindset, an initiation is a rite of passage or a ceremonial process that signifies the beginning of a new stage in your spiritual journey. It is often viewed as a transcendent experience of a profound event or state of consciousness in which you seem to go beyond your ordinary sense of self and reality. You might come to a sense of One Life Awareness, or a seemingly higher dimension of existence. Such experiences are typically characterized by intense feelings of awe, peace, and interconnectedness. It is common to believe Initiations that involve a series of rituals, teachings, or challenges can prepare you for a deeper understanding or connection with the All That Is, One Life. And yet an initiation can also simply be the dawn of a new day, a few moments of deep contemplation, or a fleeting profound insight.
Though most formal initiations include ceremonies, chants, prayers, meditation, fasting, or other practices designed to bring the initiate into a state of heightened consciousness, none of these rituals are truly necessary. Sacred knowledge or wisdom, often imparted by a teacher, mentor, or guide, can come to you spontaneously in random encounters that are uncontrived and without preparation. Some traditions believe this kind of esoteric knowledge is meant only for those who have been prepared to receive it. We would suggest that identifying certain behaviors as preparation for something more profound to occur can get you trapped in futurizing and attached to ideas of certain outcomes. The opportunity is to be present right here right now, not to prepare for something other than what is right here and right now.
Every moment is an opportunity to recognize the inherent nature of mind, which is pure awareness. This recognition doesn't have to be limited to formal meditation sessions; it can happen anytime and anywhere. Each moment becomes an initiation into the true nature of reality when you see through the illusion of duality and recognize your inherent nature. Then the experiences and challenges of everyday life are not seen as distractions but as integral parts of the path. Every interaction, sensation, and thought can be used as a means to deepen awareness and understanding.
Changes in your perception, behavior, and understanding of your place in the universe can unfold naturally and without effort. These changes may give the impression that you are achieving milestones in your spiritual journey. However the whole notion of progressing through levels of initiation is just an attempt to provide a conceptual structure that tries to explain what cannot be explained. As the only “goal” is to directly recognize the nature of your mind as primordial purity and spontaneous presence, the notion of levels of this recognition makes no sense. You always are everything you are, no more, no less. Therefore, you cannot be at this level or that level, you are just right here, right where you are.
From our perspective, initiations, transcendent experiences, and the like simply provide you with opportunities for direct experience, and cannot be evaluated or rated using any kind of conceptual framework. Maintaining continuous presence and awareness throughout daily activities is a core practice. A continuous mindfulness can transform ordinary moments into opportunities for spiritual realization, effectively making each moment a form of initiation.
We highlight the importance of spontaneity and naturalness. Approaching life with an open, spontaneous attitude allows you to respond to situations with wisdom and compassion, seeing each event as a manifestation of the primordial nature of mind.
Difficulties and challenges in daily life are seen as valuable teachers. Instead of avoiding or resisting them, embrace them as opportunities to apply your understanding and deepen your practice. Each challenge becomes an initiation into greater resilience and insight. Practicing non-attachment and equanimity in everyday situations helps dissolve the dualistic view and reinforces the understanding of the interconnectedness of all phenomena. Each moment of non-attachment can be seen as an initiation into the deeper realization of non-dual awareness.
Everyday life itself is a continuous initiation into the nature of mind and reality. By maintaining awareness, integrating practice with daily activities, and embracing each moment as a learning opportunity, you will come to know every day as an initiation.

Tutorial April 2024    

The Path of Acceptance at the Heart of Great Perfection
We have spoken about acceptance in a previous tutorial (“Acceptance” posted July 28, 2023) as a state of being reached when you stop arguing with reality. We have found that a deep understanding of Great Perfection is one way to support this state of being. The true nature of All That Is revels itself as Great Perfection and at the heart of Great Perfection lies acceptance.
Great Perfection is the tradition known in Tibetan Buddhism as Dzogchen. Usually, it is referred to as “The” Great Perfection, but we prefer to speak to Great Perfection without the article “the” which tends to reify it as a static noun. Great Perfection is a noun, verb, adjective and adverb all at once. Great Perfection is an understanding that emphasizes the inherent primordial purity and perfection of one’s mind and consciousness, and the completeness of all beings and experiences. Great Perfection emphasizes non-dual awareness, where subject and object, self and other, are understood to be inseparable. This non-dual view transcends ordinary perception and leads to a profound sense of unity and interconnectedness with all phenomena.

All beings possess primordial awareness, an intrinsic quality of mind that is clear, spacious, and unobstructed. Acceptance begins with recognizing and resting in this innate awareness, which is beyond conceptual elaboration and unaffected by transient experiences.  Acceptance involves letting go of dualistic notions and recognizing the unity of all phenomena. You let go of attachment and aversion to experiences as they arise. Rather than grasping onto pleasant experiences or pushing away unpleasant ones, you are encouraged to rest in a state of equanimity, allowing phenomena to arise and pass away without clinging or resistance.

With Great Perfection experiences unfold spontaneously, and you accept this without trying to manipulate or control them according to preconceived notions or preferences. When something arises on your path, be it a challenge or opportunity, engage it with total presence. Be fully present with whatever arises in the present moment, without judgment or distraction. This total presence will allow you to abide in the unconditioned nature of mind, free from conceptual elaboration and mental constructs, and to fully experience Great Perfection of reality and All That Is.

Acceptance is not passive resignation or indifference, but rather an active engagement with the present moment as it is, without distortion or elaboration. On the path of acceptance, you will gradually uncover the inherent clarity, purity, and freedom of your own mind, ultimately realizing a state of enlightenment.  In Great Perfection every individual possesses an innate state of enlightenment which can be described as primordial awareness or One Life Awareness. This is not something to be attained or cultivated; rather, it is the fundamental nature of your being.

At the heart of Great Perfection lies the true nature of your own mind. On the path of acceptance you find the true nature of your mind effortlessly. There is no striving for attainment or transformation, just Great Perfection everywhere. Great Perfection emphasizes effortless meditation, where you rest in the natural state of awareness which is acceptance, without trying to manipulate or control your experience.

​The ultimate goal of Great Perfection is not merely to attain a temporary state of meditative absorption but to integrate the recognition of the true nature of mind into every aspect of your life. This involves bringing the wisdom and compassion cultivated in meditation into daily activities, relationships, and interactions with the world. Great Perfection is characterized by a sense of boundless openness and inclusivity. Maintaining a state of effortless presence in every moment will allow you to abide in acceptance of every moment. Whether you are formally meditating or doing the dishes, you will be on the path of acceptance at the heart of Great Perfection.

One Life Tutorial for March 2024

The infinite mystery of the present moment refers to the idea that the present moment, the here and now, contains a depth and richness that is beyond your rational comprehension. The present moment is fleeting and ephemeral. It exists only for an instant before transitioning into the past. Despite its fleeting nature, the present moment holds profound significance because it is the only moment in which you truly live and experience life.
Within the present moment lies a complexity that is infinite. It encompasses not only your immediate sensory experiences but also the vast array of thoughts, emotions, sensations, and perceptions that arise within your awareness. The present moment is inherently unpredictable and uncontrollable. Embracing the mystery of the present moment involves surrendering to its unpredictability and learning to be open to whatever arises. In essence, the infinite mystery of the present moment invites you to approach life with curiosity, openness, and reverence. It reminds you to cultivate mindfulness and presence in each moment, recognizing the inherent beauty and sacredness of One Life here and now. The present moment is your most direct connection to reality. It is where One Life unfolds free from all distortions of memory or projection.
The present moment both asks and answers the question: “What is the nature of reality?” This question encompasses inquiries into the essential principles underlying existence, the nature of consciousness, the structure of the universe, and the relationship between the observer and the observed. It has been explored by philosophers, scientists, theologians, and spiritual seekers throughout history. It is a question that requires the understanding that the infinite mystery of the present moment is how the nature of reality is revealed.
You may have contemplated reality and discovered the notion of “consensus reality.” Consensus reality refers to the generally agreed-upon understanding of what is real and true within a particular society or community. It is the shared understanding of reality that emerges from the collective beliefs, perceptions, and interpretations of a group of people. It is an amalgamation of realities dependent on personal realities coming together somehow.
Consensus reality is socially constructed, meaning it is shaped by cultural norms, values, and shared experiences within a group or society and relies on an implicit agreement among members of a group about what is considered real and acceptable. This agreement helps maintain social cohesion and facilitates communication and interaction among individuals.
As reality is created and lived on the fly, in the moment, a consensus of realities would have to be also created on the fly and exist only in the moment. If you see yourself as an individual, your present moment experience would necessarily be unique to you and simultaneously so would your perception of a consensus reality. So it seems that a consensus reality may never actually exist.
A similar conundrum emerges when you consider the notion of “objective reality.” Objective reality refers to the existence of a world external to your subjective perceptions and interpretations. It implies that there is a physical universe with its own laws, structures, and properties that exist independently of human consciousness. However nothing can be perceived without human consciousness, nor can exist independently.
“Subjective reality,” on the other hand, emphasizes the role of individual perception, interpretation, and consciousness in shaping your experience of reality. It suggests that your subjective experiences and interpretations influence how you perceive and understand the world around you. The question of whether reality is unique to each individual is complex and can be approached from various philosophical, psychological, and scientific perspectives. The challenge with this representation lies in seeing infinite realities expressing infinite points of view communicating with each other.
Some theoretical frameworks, such as those in quantum physics and metaphysics, propose the existence of multidimensional or multilevel realities “beyond” your ordinary perception. These models suggest that reality has dimensions or aspects that are not accessible through your conventional senses. In some philosophical and spiritual traditions, reality is viewed as a combination of illusionary phenomena with an ultimate reality that transcends ordinary perception. These belief systems emphasize the transient and illusory nature of conventional reality. They also recognize the infinite mystery of the present moment.
The nature of reality is a deep and multifaceted topic that encompasses various perspectives and interpretations. We have presented just a few possible configurations of reality to stimulate your exploration. This exploration invites your contemplation and meditation, diving deep into the fundamental nature of existence, consciousness, and perception. In all the ways you can describe the nature of reality, you are describing the infinite mystery of the present moment. The deeper knowing is that when the infinite mystery of the moment is embraced, there is One Life. One reality, non-dual, the only reality there is of All That Is, always reflecting the infinite mystery of the present moment.
 

LIGHTNESS AND DARKNESS
LIGHTNESS AND DARKNESS

In your life experience, everything tends to appear and disappear into lightness and darkness. You generally think of the relationship of light and dark as a fundamental duality, but it is more accurately a dynamic interplay within the context of relative experience. In an absolute sense, the light and the dark are not static things to which you compare everything, but an ever-changing non-static expression of All That Is, One Life.

The play of lightness and darkness occurs within the field of relative manifestation, while the luminosity of All That Is, One Life, remains as it is and as it has always been. The idea that luminosity can be temporarily obscured by conceptualization, attachment, aversion, and ignorance, paints the picture of light as being more pervasive, solid and in some manner able to be hidden or obscured by invasions of darkness. However, if you dive deeper, you come to know that light does not exist without darkness as dark does not exist without lightness. So both are always present and one cannot truly obscure the other because to do so would alter itself.

By transcending the distinctions between lightness and darkness, an integration and understanding of the true nature of reality that goes beyond dualistic conceptualization arises. The fundamental nature of reality and consciousness is beyond conceptualization and dualistic distinctions. This understanding is commonly known as non-duality.
Non-duality is a philosophical and spiritual concept that challenges the conventional understanding of reality as divided into separate and distinct parts. Non-duality suggests that there is an  infinite and indivisible reality whose nature is pure consciousness, from which all objects and selves derive their apparently independent existence. Non-duality also implies that there is no real difference between self and other, mind and body, observer and observed, or any of the other dichotomies that shape your perception of reality. .

Non-duality is not a belief system or a dogma, but rather a direct experience of the underlying unity of existence. Through practices like meditation and self-inquiry, you can bypass the limitations of conceptual understanding and directly apprehend the interconnectedness that transcends superficial distinctions.  Realizing the non-dual nature of mind through meditation and direct experience, you can cut through the illusion of duality.

Furthermore, the nature of dualistic perceptions is illusory. The seeming separation between self and other, light and dark, and all dualities is ultimately unreal. Once you sense the non-dual nature of reality, you can see the conventional world of dualities as existing without substantiality. You can integrate this understanding into everyday experience, recognizing the unity within apparent diversity. That integration can assist you to free yourself from the habitual patterns of trying to hold onto pleasant experiences and avoiding unpleasant ones. By transcending dualistic preferences, you can attain a state of equanimity and liberation.

Non-duality is also not the same as monism, another philosophical concept that deals with the nature of reality. While both philosophies challenge the conventional understanding of dualism, they approach it differently. Monism asserts that there is only one substance or principle that constitutes reality, while non-duality denies the existence of any substance or principle at all.

Non-duality is a central teaching across various traditions, such as Advaita Vedanta, Buddhism, Taoism, and mysticism. However, non-duality is not limited to a particular cultural or religious context; instead, it emerges as a universal insight that can be found in various expressions and forms. Non-duality is also compatible with science, as it does not contradict the empirical observations of the natural world, but rather offers a deeper perspective on the nature of reality and consciousness. 

​Explore the relationship between lightness and darkness as a symbolic expression of the understanding of non-dual awareness. As you come to know that light and dark cannot exist without each other, open up to know that nothing exists independently and that all is simply One Life, non-dual awareness.
 
 

New Year’s Resolutions
A New Year's resolution can be many things, but it is generally a firm decision to do or not do something or a commitment or determination to achieve a specific goal or outcome. You have probably made many resolutions in past years and kept some not others.

The question arises as to whether the principle of non-attachment to outcome can render all resolutions impossible. You are immersed in a culture that values achieving goals and attaining outcomes, but at the same time, you have come to know that attachment to a particular outcome can be at the root of much suffering. We suggest that a New Year’s resolution can be approached in a way that aligns you with the principles and practices of One Life Awareness. If you are aligning with the recognition of your innate nature and the direct experience of the natural state of mind, a New Year’s resolution can actually benefit you.

When setting a New Year's resolution, you can bring attention to your underlying motivations and clarify your intention. This process of introspection and self-awareness promotes an emphasis on recognizing the nature of mind. Clarity of intention is beneficial in focusing the core beliefs that inspire you to be present and mindful in every moment.
One Life Awareness points to a non-attachment to conceptual elaborations and dualistic thinking. While setting goals, recognize the impermanence of outcomes and avoid fixating on success or failure. Instead, focus on the process, the present moment, and the transformative journey itself. Highlight the steps and efforts you are taking in the present moment. Acknowledge that life is inherently uncertain, and outcomes may not always sync with your expectations. Embrace the unknown as an opportunity for growth and learning.

Frame your resolutions around your mindset, qualities, and deeper self rather than attempting to control external circumstances. For example, affirm your resilience, adaptability, and commitment to personal growth. Let go of making goals of acquisitions and seeking empiric results. Detach your sense of self-worth from external validation. Instead of seeking approval or validation by attaining a particular outcome, focus on honoring your values and principles through your actions.

We suggest that resolutions can be more than just surface-level goals if you align them with your deeply held wisdom and compassion. You may question yourself about what truly matters to you and how you can live in greater alignment with your principles.

Practices such as meditation and mindfulness can play an important role in the resolution-setting process. These practices can help you to quiet the mind, connect with your true nature, and gain clarity about your intentions for the upcoming year. You can integrate your resolution with a meditation practice, using the mindfulness cultivated in meditation to support your efforts in bringing about positive changes in your life.  A New Year's resolution provides an opportunity to become aware of issues and to consciously choose to break free from those that do not serve your well-being. Promote the cultivation of virtuous qualities such as compassion, wisdom, and loving-kindness by framing your resolution in a way that aligns with the cultivation of these qualities through the fostering of positive change not only for yourself but also for the benefit of all others. Regularly reflect on your progress, challenges, and the impact of your resolution on your overall well-being by including practices of self-reflection and inquiry. Self-awareness is an essential aspect of One Life Awareness.
In essence, a New Year's resolution can be a transformative and spiritually enriching practice when approached with mindfulness, awareness, and a focus on the direct experience of the present moment. It provides an opportunity to align personal growth with the principles of One Life, fostering a deeper understanding of the nature of All That Is.

​Cultivate gratitude for the present moment and the positive aspects of your life. Gratitude shifts your focus from what you lack to what you have, promoting a sense of fulfillment independent of external outcomes. We say in the simplest way, never use your resolutions against yourself. An example of this would be finding fault with the outcome, and criticizing yourself for what is present in the moment. Let your resolutions evolve throughout the year as you grow and deepen your trust in knowing the perfection of what is here and now. Flexibility and openness to change are necessary to keep resolutions productive rather than a burden or means of finding what is lacking in your life. Let all New Year’s resolutions simply support who you are and find the love your core. Resolve to simply love everyone and everything and be who you truly are. A New Year’s resolution is not necessary or unnecessary, but if you feel like making one,may it reflect your deepest being and consider your efforts to be in service to the greatest good for all beings. Happy New Year!

Tutorial for December 2023

Kindness in a World of War and Conflict

Acts of kindness in the conventional sense, such as helping others, showing empathy, and practicing generosity, are profoundly valuable at all times. They are expressions of the underlying wisdom and compassion that arises from the direct realization of the nature of mind. Expressions of kindness can open hearts and minds, even in the midst of war and conflict.

​Looking for kindness in your world, as well as in your Self, while experiencing war and conflict can be challenging. When you see conflicts and disputes escalating easily, with little willingness to compromise, understand different perspectives, or find peaceful resolutions, you may feel that kindness is lost. Society may seem to be callous and indifferent. With difficulty finding kindness, you may feel more isolated and alienated, leading to a sense of loneliness. Kindness is a force that facilitates cooperation and collaboration. In its absence, you may experience individuals and groups challenged to work together for common goals, hindering progress and collective well-being.

Kindness is essential for building trust. In a world of limited kindness, trust between individuals, communities, and nations is compromised, leading to a more distrustful and suspicious global environment. What you experience in your world as a lack of trust, may also be experienced in your Self as a disconnect from the inner reliable wisdom that guides you on your path. Without the presence of kindness, you may feel unable to address the needs of those who are vulnerable or in distress, leading to increased suffering in your world and your Self.

Right now you see wars and conflict in many forms and in many places. Amidst the complexity of war and conflict, individual and collective efforts toward kindness and compassion can contribute to cultivating a peaceful world as well as a peaceful self.

It's important to note that kindness is a complex and multifaceted concept, and its absence doesn't necessarily mean the complete breakdown of society. However, a lack of kindness contributes to an environment that is challenging for everyone to navigate. War and conflict are manifestations of ignorance, attachment, and aversion—three of the primary causes of suffering.

War usually arises from a lack of understanding, misperception, and delusion, with ignorance considered a fundamental cause of all conflict. From a One Life perspective, individuals and societies caught in the cycle of war are operating under the influence of ignorance, failing to recognize the interconnected and interdependent nature of all beings.
The attachment to resources, power, and ideologies, are common drivers of conflict. Recognize the importance of transcending attachments and aversions, understanding them as illusions that perpetuate suffering. From a One Life perspective, the solution to war lies in part with cultivating non-attachment and equanimity.

War often arises when interconnectedness is ignored, and individuals or groups perceive themselves as separate entities with conflicting interests. Recognizing the interdependence of all beings and cultivating a sense of universal responsibility can be key to addressing the root causes of war. War reflects a lack of compassion and understanding while resolving conflicts requires cultivating genuine compassion for all beings, including those involved in perpetuating violence. Wars are often fueled by a sense of ego, nationalism, and the desire to protect a perceived self-interest. Understanding the emptiness of the ego and realizing the unity of all beings can be transformative in addressing the root causes of conflict. War also arises from impulsive and reactive behavior. Through mindfulness practices, and the cultivation of kindness, you can develop greater self-awareness and make more skillful and compassionate choices, reducing the likelihood of engaging in or supporting war. Promoting kindness in the midst of war and conflict can be challenging, but the simple principles and practices of non-attachment, compassion, and mindfulness can cultivate and spread kindness even in difficult circumstances.

True kindness goes beyond conventional notions of kindness as mere altruism or compassionate actions. It is rooted in the understanding of the true nature of reality and the recognition of the inherent purity and wisdom within all beings. True kindness involves recognizing the fundamental nature of mind, which is considered to be open, spacious, and free from inherent limitations. This recognition naturally leads to a deep sense of compassion and kindness that transcends ordinary concepts of self and others. In this One Life view, the ultimate kindness is to help others recognize their own inherent wisdom and compassion by pointing them to the nature of their own mind.

​What can you do to find kindness in a world of war and conflict? Find your compassion not only for those who may seem to be directly suffering, but also for individuals on all sides of any conflict. Recognize shared humanity. Kindness can be expressed through all efforts to promote communication, negotiation, and peaceful resolution. Encourage empathy and open conversation and foster mutual understanding and cooperation whenever you can. Kindness can be expressed through participation in activities that promote reconciliation, tolerance, and understanding. Any place and anywhere that you can be kind to anyone cultivates peace in the world and peace within your Self. Do what you can to allow kindness to arise in your heart and always be who you really are.