Brian – Well said. In writing about “the Journey”, you reminded me of the image of a river. The surface waters are forever turbulent & cyclical, tossed about by wind (thoughts & actions of the day) and subtle undercurrents (emotions of the past)….all while moving from point A to B. Is this not the way of the masses? Does not every epitaph begin with a point A and end at a point B? From this observation of the environment how can I extract a spiritual journey? As Brian said, how do we sit down in one spot and sink down into things?

Answer: the “Will”, the deepest element of control within the self.

At the lowest depth of the river there is always stillness. This stillness is always present and is ever accessible to those who seek it. Therein lies the vertical depth that Brian speaks of. The kingdom comes in the awareness that I must “choose” to seek it……hence it is an act of “self” will. Seek “Ye” First the kingdom of Heaven……..(I placed the emphasis here on “Ye” and “First” to awaken the reader!). This journey we speak of is “you” directed and takes precedence….no one else can do it for you.

Many times during the week I will invoke the thought……”All is Passing”! This for me has become a powerful tool in self awareness….dropping me vertically into the moment at hand……thus giving my “will” an opportunity to evaluate, reassess and re-direct if necessary. The general condition (#1) of man is one where the “mind” is continually ensnared in the turmoil of the days’ events (i.e., the mind is overtly present, mesmerized by its’ sentient inputs). The other detraction from exercising the will (general condition #2) stems from the mind’s incessant need to pre-test scenarios and outcomes or fantasize conclusions (i.e., the mind’s attempt to exercise control over past events and control future outcomes). Problem #2 ….pardon the pun…has a “mind” of it’s own! The unwatched mind will self enguage itself in problem-solving and fantasizing if left unchecked by the will. As much as I disagree with certain beliefs of Christian Science, I believe Mary Baker Eddy was fairly correct in her quote………

“Stand porter at the door of thought. Admitting only such conclusions as you wish realized in bodily results, you will control yourself harmoniously.”

As a mystic, however, I am more detached to the expectation of bodily results…..but more attached to the notion of “standing porter”.

In vertically exercising the will (a timeless glimpse is often availed) a door of opportunity that was always present…..yet…..never opened nor thought of consciously for that matter. Unless directed to do so by the “Will”, this choice or “door” would most likely be overlooked.

Choices directed out of selfless love (i.e., self-will alligned with “Will” capital W) ……..bear witness to Truth. I believe self-will (purged of all impure intents or self-expectations) in its’ ultimacy does bear the fruit in which God intends himself to manifest.

Though I did not discuss the dispensation of “Grace” here …..it cannot be overlooked on the spiritual journey. It should however be met with the utmost in Hope…….

All for now….. John

This statement is so true in my experience. I have been accused by some of having self esteem issues, in need of therapy. However, while I am sure of what I DO know, I am humbled by how much I don’t know. It has given me an attitude of a learner, for I realize no matter how much I have learned, there is still more road on my journey. I also have, at times, been accused of arrogance for not having enough respect for whoever for whatever. However, I have spent much time practicing and bowing before the throne of the Almighty. And, because of this journey with God, I have a different perspective, that I include myself in.

It is nice to read that others recognize this paradoxal truth.