Yes, You!

References in The Vital Force to Justin Stone’s varied teaching styles have got me thinking. As a regular attendee at Carmen Brocklehurst’s Spring and Fall retreats, I was given many opportunities to learn from Justin. Year after year I returned, hoping that Justin would again spend several hours with us at the retreat. Often I had the added opportunity to visit his home, meditate or share a meal. During each gifted encounter, my entire being was on high alert. I knew so much knowledge and wisdom would be offered. Would I be able to take it in and understand what Justin was really saying (or not saying)? At times he seemed to wander with his responses to questions from retreat attendees, and I knew the answer (and more) was there if only I could get it.

I will always remember a lesson learned while sitting in Justin’s living room waiting to go into his meditation room. Justin kept talking about his belt, and it seemed a little strange. Finally it was time for meditation (and Justin liked to start promptly). He stood up and said something to the effect of “I guess I will have to undo my belt. Hope my pants will stay up.” Finally, I realized he wanted me to unhook my elastic belt. It was too tight for meditation, too restrictive. I did so and he immediately proceeded without a word into the meditation room and we began. One of Justin’s teaching styles was to be indirect, to see if you were paying attention. My take away that day was “Yes, You!” He was telling me to loosen up on many levels. Justin still speaks to each of us through his books, DVDs and CDs. Are we really listening and watching with our whole beings?

words

no words

not always

as it appears

Stone’s arrow

points us

where?

Stone

master

teaches us

pay attention

not saying

saying

watch