What You Read

On Saturday nights a small group of dedicated meditators gathers at my house. Afterward we go to dinner and come back to the house for philosophic discussion and reading from one of the books in my metaphysical library.

The meditators are very interested, but I warn them not to try to apply what they hear to their own lives. The Indian work makes much mention of Vairagya (non-attachment) as a necessity for achievement of enlightenment, Moksha, salvation, etc. Can you expect a mother or father, living in this everyday world, to be non-attached to their children? If they live good, honest lives, useful to the world, that is enough, unless they are the few who want to ‘know God’, learn ‘Truth’, etc. In that case they are driven and will try to ‘accord with Reality’, the real purpose of Spirituality.

When we get into doctrine and dogma, this in no way leads us on the path to Truth, though it may forward the growth of the Religion we follow. There is a difference between trying to follow teachings as opposed to experiencing Truth for ourselves.

I point out that these books and teachings are for Yogis, Monks, and inherantly spiritual people. To try to work at a job, raise a family, and enjoy some entertainment (if that is necessary to you), means you have little time—or true desire—for spiritual practice, while knowing your whole future somewhat depends on it. I have known quite a few who are compassionate, ethical, and moral who are not in the least interested in future lives or salvation. They may be very helpful in this world.

One reason many people do T’ai Chi Chih is because it is not philosophical, has no hint of religion about it, and leaves one open to personal experience without any words. When a man is hungry, don’t preach to him, give him something to eat.

Please remember this when you read deep, highly interesting metaphysical books. They do not, necessarily, speak to you. If you are spiritually inclined (perhaps the real purpose in life), you will know it.