The Importance of Self-Observation

In the 1970's Werner Erhard's seminars were intended to bring individuals from self-awareness to Self-Awareness: eliminating the identification with ego in daily life. For me, there was one concept that made a deep impression, and one exercise that I have used successfully on both self and others.

The concept states that the primary function of what we call the 'mind' is to perpetuate its own existence. Thus, spiritual practice (without the self-observation that facilitates the dissolution of the false identity) only serves to intensify the phenomenon, as the mind, believing it 'knows' something, now shows up as spiritual ego—a much more insidious creature. One has convinced oneself that one is now a 'spiritual' being—and while one has the intellectual understanding of something greater, and is able to talk the talk, the walk is often lacking, as self-identification is still running the show.

The exercise—based on the principle 'what one resists persists'—is a simple one utilized to eliminate a headache. One focuses attention on the headache, which actually dissolves in the Light of that attention. That act, of looking at the pain in one's head unflinchingly, is similar to the exercise of self-observation. By the diligent practice of observing one's thoughts, speaking and behavior, one begins the process of separating oneself from the identification with the personality.

As this separation begins to occur, a space is created that allows the Self to arise; bringing the Awareness that is its essential Nature. This Awareness, the presence of Consciousness, is expanding Itself on the planet via the Evolution Revolution. What is most remarkable is that it is happening in so-called ordinary people—usually those without great investment in self – the so-called 'meek'.

Along with the presence of Consciousness comes Love and Compassion, and a sensitivity to one's environment. One notices both the flock of birds wheeling in the sky, and the person in one's vicinity who might need a helping hand or a kind word. One recognizes one's own Self everywhere, and the Oneness that is the Truth of existence.

As a well known Master has stated: True spiritual life is that which teaches unity or Oneness, and makes us selfless and full of Love.


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