This Week's Quotation:
First of all, I believed nothing was impossible and at the same time, I questioned everything.
~ Sri Aurobindo
Barefoot Discernment
Sri Aurobindo was a visionary Indian activist who developed the practice of Integral Yoga based on the understanding that opening to deeper self-knowledge leads to an experience of oneness with the Divine, creating an experience of heaven on earth.
Like many others, I was raised to believe my elders. Personal discernment was sternly advised, but in practice strictly discouraged. On the cusp of teenhood, I felt panic—I had no opinions and I needed to get them! But without a basis of trust in myself, my point of reference remained external for many years which led me into all sorts of trouble. Eventually, I found a question that I thought may serve well, and it has. When in doubt, I ask, Where is the Love? But sometimes it is hard to answer that question accurately. Sometimes we see love everywhere and sometimes we just can’t see it at all.
It is possible that two opposing perspectives may be true at the same time. Anything is possible (magic happens), and yet skepticism that looks for the sleight of hand is also healthy. It’s a continuum, not a disconnect. The current “truest truth“ is revealed by the right questions. These days, a questioner risks ridicule and even attacks from people of strong views who dislike questions. It is more important than ever to protect our right to question and to exercise compassion, care, and authentic curiosity in our questioning. It is also essential to understand our own biases.
I call this process “barefoot discernment” because exploring the right choice calls for a no-holds-barred moment of truth. If I truly seek to serve the Divine, there can be no protection from the rawness of the burning tar beneath my feet. When my intentions are revealed, discernment is easier.
Earth is calling us towards carefully discerned, decisive, immediate action. Science tells us avoiding catastrophic climate change is impossible, yet hope is our nature. Hope relies on focused action and heroic commitment to a belief in a different future. Hope is the magic ingredient that galvanizes Faith and Love to right action. Together, let these three forces inform our deepest questing. Let us never stop believing in miracles. May we all know the wonder of co-creation.
About Open Windows
We, the authors of this blog, dedicate it to the transparent exploration of the world’s sacred scripture and enlightened spiritual thought. We believe that the original inspiration of all faiths comes from a common source, named and revered in a myriad of ways. With that understanding, the innumerable symbols, beliefs, and practices of faith cease to divide. They become open windows to a common reality that inspires and unifies us. We find deeper insight and nourishment in our own faith and from the expression of faith from others.
We hope these weekly quotations and meditations speak to your heart and soul.
3 Responses
Thank you, Rev. Berry and thank you, Sri Aurobindo. Yes, barefoot discernment is required in the sense you offer and also in the sense of removing my sandals before entering the temple. I am with you in that practicality and that humility. And since you offer co-creation is a great path, I co-create with you now by blessings and extending all you say in agreement. Love, Tom
Thank you, Berry, for the discernment that led you to your present state of service to what is higher. The first 28 years of my life I questioned everything. Then I was given a book that contained the words: “You are Divine. That is the truth for you.” I knew instantly that these words were bedrock Truth and my search for Truth was over. For the next 54 years it has just been a matter of training my body, heart and mind to express this Truth in my living and inspiring others to do the same.
This is profoundly beautiful, helpful and meaningful – thank you so much!!!