A Word from Dr. Simon
Although on some level, the essence of a spiritual journey is the relinquishing of attachment to a particular outcome, each of us has intentions and desires we’d like to see manifest. Wisdom traditions suggest that there is a skill set to increase the probability that our good intentions translate into the outcomes we seek.
One-pointedness. The Vedas tell us that purity of thought and fixity of purpose are the secrets to success. Ask yourself, “What do I really want?” Consider, to the extent possible, how manifesting your desire will influence and enhance the quality of your life.- Discipline. Discipline is the commitment to learning and practice. The word discipline derives from the same root as the word disciple, which means “being open to receive.” The fruit of discipline is grace – the universe adds its power and creativity to your capability, and you manifest something that at one point seemed beyond your reach.
- Timing. Mastering the power of intention includes honoring the rhythms of life. There is a time to act and a time to practice forbearance. Staying tuned in to the synchronistic clues around you enables optimal results with minimal effort.
- Discernment. Attention is the most powerful force in human awareness. Whatever we place our attention on grows stronger in our lives. Apply your attention with conscious discrimination, and nature will support you in the fulfillment of your desires.
- Surrender. We have control over our next choice, but no control over the consequences of our choice. Knowing this, focus your resources on the choice in front of you, set the desired trajectory, and then let go, observing the outcome with curiosity and amusement. Like an accomplished archer, become clear on the target, pull back your bow to a point of stillness, release the arrow, and see what happens.
- Return to the state where all desires arise and are fulfilled. Bringing silence into your daily practice through meditation and yoga cultivates a state of abundance consciousness. Whatever you are seeking to accomplish in the world of form and phenomena, you can access the feeling you are striving to generate by quieting your mind and entering into timeless awareness.
- Witness your self-importance and self-pity. It is easy to waste life energy taking credit for our accomplishments and casting blame for our failures. This energy would be better invested in making use of the lesson learned to make more evolutionary choices. Spiritual warriors practice sobriety without taking themselves too seriously. In this way, we align our personal wants and desires with universal intent. Nature then supports the fulfillment of our desires, as the line between individual and universal becomes nearly indistinguishable.
Let’s set our collective intention on expanding peace, happiness, and love in our personal lives and for all sentient beings on our beautiful, delicate planet. Best wishes for an evolutionary New Year.
With love,
David
