Book A Session
Interrelatedness
In the last few weeks, I’ve given you a broad-brush overview of some of what Buddhist teachings believe to be the delusions or misperceptions of reality. In this third episode, I briefly outline the misperception that many of us have, perhaps unknowingly, that we are somehow separate from one another.
Nowhere is this delusion more prevalent and glaringly on display than during this global pandemic. If we believe that this is happening “out there” and does not or will not personally affect us, we are fundamentally disconnected.
Instead of feeling compassion, we stay caught inside of a narcissistic panic. Ultimately in that panic, we lack the wisdom and compassion to experience the collective nature and suffering of humanity.
So, how do we respond without immediately shifting into survival mode and feeling threatened personally?
Take in a deep breath. Now exhale. Is there any way that you can separate yourself from your environment?
Stepping out of the delusion of separation is a relief. We can see beneath our roles and dramas to the level of our spirit.
We are here to awaken from the
illusion of separateness.
The Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh calls this “inter-being.” Essentially, we are all interrelated. There’s nothing I do that doesn’t affect someone else somewhere on the planet, whether it’s in my own home or somewhere else.
The Practice
This week, I invite you to examine and explore the truth of our interrelatedness. There are always gradations of readiness and willingness, so start where you are at this moment.
Just for a moment, consider that the truth of your inter-being is actually the key to your well-being and the well-being of humanity at large. Otherwise, we trap ourselves in the delusional state of separateness.
Does this practice change your perspective?
As a life, business and spiritual coach, meditation practitioner and spiritual teacher, Maggie Kelly has helped hundreds uncover, discover and discard their conditioned existence, habitual patterns and limiting beliefs which prevent them from living the life they envision. Join Maggie for a Complimentary 30-Minute Life Coaching Session today.