Hi hi,
Have you ever stared at something for so much time that you no longer recognize it? The same feeling occurs when you stare at a word until the logic behind the assortment of letters fades into absurdity.
In today’s meditation, we enter that space of long looks, this time with the intention of dissolving perceived physical boundaries.
Set yourself up in front of an object. Choose whatever you’d like, as long as it isn’t moving about!
Let me know how this practice goes for you.
xx,
James
In the physical realm, we perceive ourselves as separate from the people and things that surround us. But the notion that we are independent beings, without connection to others is an illusion. In fact, we all emerge from the same energetic sphere. The larger part of our being is still there, existing as part of a whole. It can be tempting to look only for separation, especially in times of suffering, but by doing so we only prolong our time spent in pain.
Today, we are going to practice dissolving the boundaries of the physical world, by focussing our attention on a single object. What you choose is up to you, as long as it remains in place under your gaze. You may wish to find a tree, a body of water. You can also use an object in your home, like a chair, vase or pillow.
Whatever you decide, take a moment to position yourself in a comfortable place with the object. Once you’re there, fix your eyes upon the shape. The gaze is relaxed, let your eyelids close and open naturally as needed. Observe your object’s texture. Is it rippled or smooth, maybe there are little indentations or scratches you hadn’t noticed before. Does light create a gradation of color along the surface? Are there any points of reflection?
The object is so much more than what is seen at first glance. Just as you have a history that might not be obvious to a passerby, this object is a composition of multitudes. It has passed through either soil from different eras, or been in the hands of many in the process of creation. In the same way that you are a product of your surroundings, an entire ecosystem, whether manmade or naturally occurring, is responsible for its presence here today.
As you concentrate on the object, perhaps a spirit of recognition begins to emerge. Both you and the object influence one another, just through presence. You and the object are sharing the same space, one impacting the other’s place in the world, if only temporarily. This feeling of affinity comes from a place of truly seeing, beyond the superficial layer of existence. It is similar to falling in love, when you are fully recognized by another, and know their heart so deeply in return.
It is possible to feel this way for anything, when you commit to fully looking. Looking without judgement or expectations, but looking to see what is there to be seen. Recognizing what you find with open eyes and an open heart. By creating that space, you allow the boundaries of the physical realm to fall away.
Let us take 3 breaths in honor of our object. On the inhale, send the object the words: I see you and as you exhale send I am you.
We’ll try it now:
Inhale, I see you
Exhale, I am one with you
Inhale, I see you
Exhale, I am one with you
Inhale, I see you
Exhale, I am one with you
These words can be used whenever you wish to create a connection between you and another being. If you can hold space to really be present with them as we have practiced today, you may be able to observe the connection that runs deeper than the physical form. It’s important to move through this exercise as an observer, especially when engaging with people. You want to be able to foster compassionate connection, but not take on energy that isn’t yours to bear.
We do a delicate dance in this human realm, but we are capable of incredible things.
Open Observing