To believe that one has found the single spiritual truth or “correct way of being” and to then react emotionally when others don’t agree is to walk on dangerous ground.
This self-righteousness seeks and often finds our greatest weaknesses and latches on. I’ve observed its poison course through myself, others, and humanity as a whole time and again. We can see the precise areas where it festers when others hold up the spiritual mirror and show us.
Not long ago I would seek out evangelical Christian blogs simply to pick fights and poke holes in the authors’ beliefs. Was this because I was certain their beliefs were wrong, or uncertain that mine were right? Who did this exercise hurt more, me or them? It probably hurt us both. And it turns out it’s not about being “right” at all – it’s about finding your truth and living it. Part of “living it” means allowing others to find and live their truth as well, and to avoid judging them when they don’t live up to your ideal.
The truth is, it’s impossible for anyone…including you…to completely and unwaveringly live your ideal. From the most depraved criminal to the highest and most compassionate spiritual leader, every one of us is perfectly imperfect and will remain so as long as we live and breathe.
Thank you for this. I love so much that it’s not about being right – I love being a novice (as you put it) in that way – being allowed to be empty of having arrived – that it’s not about how smart I am – or am not. That shedding ego is so freeing – not just that it’s beyond judging but that it opens into a place so receptive – dare I say loving?
I realize now trying to put this into words how hard it is, and I’m all the more grateful for your posts.
fluorophore,
“…being allowed to be empty of having arrived…”
What a beautiful and powerful statement. That’s what I want – the freedom you mentioned that comes with shedding of ego. Oh, to live in that space “completely and unwaveringly.”