Monday, June 6, 2011

Pointers

There has to be something about you that does not change. What is that something?


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Self-realization is simply being aware of yourself as you naturally are. You are seeing, essentially, that you are a what, not a who. The "who" is merely a wave on the water--undeniably unique and present (at least temporarily), but water nonetheless.


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Once the mind pauses, true creativity occurs. Thought comes afterwards, with a response or assessment of that particular piece of writing, music, painting, artwork, singing, dancing, knitting, basket weaving, scientific theorizing, etc.


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The universe has no purpose for existing. And neither do you. But as long as you believe that you are your body and your mind, a wise move might be to understand why you are neither of the above, and have never been.


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In truth, you are Existence itself. Your seeming individuality is a temporary and occasional occurrence that arises out of awareness proper.


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Many seekers point to their being decade-plus meditators with enormous pride. But what is there to be proud of? You have been ignoring the obvious the entire time. And even if you were to label yourself as an "accomplished" meditator, you are still a meditator. There is still this imagined individual there. Why not bring your attention to the source of these manifestations, a source that is subtle, eternal, and magnificent? Indeed, it is meditation itself!


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When I am pointing to presence, I am pointing to you--not to something far off or slightly to the left or right of you. I'm pointing to what you are at this very moment.


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You are what you are right here and now. See that there is a very definite presence of awareness within and before you as you peruse these words. Just sit with this, ponder it, and allow for an easy and very natural discerning of your fundamental state.


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Your focus is wrongly placed on the mind. Bring your attention to awareness, which you are merely overlooking. Besides, there is no transformation of the mind in self-realization--never has been and never will be. Books and teachers who claim otherwise are unconditionally wrong.


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Throughout the day, try refusing--in a safe and responsible manner--to play along with occasional thoughts, feelings, and sentiments. You may be surprise to find how much clarity and energy you have towards evening. Don't make this a practice. It is just a revealing exploration of the workings of your mind and persona.


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Gratitude is perhaps the most praiseworthy quality that a person can have. It is a deep thankfulness and appreciation not for all things (that's conceptual, a mere notion), but for the tiniest moments. Whether you're sipping a cup of tea or coffee, folding a towel, or wandering along a solitary beach, see that ineffable gratitude is present. But you aren't attempting to dispense it. It is simply there, immeasurable and pouring forth.

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News & Info

John Wheeler's Web site is no longer up. But earnest and serious seekers (and that's the only kind we have here at "Radiance") can reach him at: johnwheeler111@yahoo.com

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RECENTLY IN: A review of the Kindle Edition of A Vastness All Around on Amazon.

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Nonduality Magazine has published a new discussion with Rodney about his work and book. The extensive and wide-ranging interview was done by John LeKay, the magazine's editor.

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"Loved the book, Rodney. Enjoyed it as much as John Wheeler's first book, Awakening to the Natural State. My favourite quote of yours was "you are no more your personal history than you are your toothbrush." I like the fact that you included little tidbits of your life and surrounds. It felt more like reading a book on travel or history than some of the other textbook style books on nonduality. I think for anyone serious about a direct approach, your book and John Wheeler's are the two to have." -- Ian

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A Vastness All Around: Awakening to Your Natural State is Rodney's first collection of essays, discussions, interviews, and powerful pointers. It can be ordered directly from the publisher at Lulu Press.

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Vastness is now available for the Amazon Kindle! Order Here.

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And for the book's Press Release, click Here.

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If you would like to meet Rodney, have him to discuss nonduality, sign books, or read, you can email him at: writerguy@fastmail.fm. Such events are self-organized, so funding is key, with groups and universities that can cover travel expenses getting priority. And much appreciation!

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This blog is generally updated every Sunday afternoon, Eastern Standard Time.

2 comments:

Ian said...

Hi Rodney,

I noticed you got a mention on the Advaita.org.uk site for your blog.

Here is the link http://www.advaita.org.uk/resources/egroups.htm

Cheers

Ian

Rodney Stevens said...

Hi Ian,

Thanks a bunch for letting me know about Radiance's mention/inclusion at advaita.org.uk. That's sounds great. I'll check it out.

And cheers to you, as well!

Rodney