So I’m writing a book.
You may have heard me say that before, perhaps years ago - and yes, it’s the same book. However, it’s finally on the final leg to completion. The editors will have it before Christmas, which is exciting.
However - the curious thing about writing a book is finding that it’s all been said before, by other people, and better.
Really what I’m doing is collating the right stuff from the right people - really I’m not writing, but doing a compendium of genius that I approve of. Perhaps you might approve of it too, or a least cause you to think differently, and approve of different things. I’ll let you know when it’s ready.
But I came across a quote yesterday, and a beauty is is: ________
“Happiness and freedom begin with a clear understanding of one principle: Some things are within our control, and some things are not. It is only after you have faced up to this fundamental rule and learned to distinguish between what you can and can't control that inner tranquility and outer effectiveness become possible”. Epictetus ________
What ARE you in control of? Can you even control your own mind? The answer is (and here’s a big tip for you meditators) - no, no you can’t. You can learn to ignore it, be indifferent to it, but you cannot stop it.
You can shape your thoughts in many ways. You can strengthen certain brain pathways meaning you’re more likely to respond to life with appreciation, gratitude, love and compassion rather than judgement, anxiety, anger, negativity.
This is nice, indeed.
The real key to life begins in becoming aware of what is beyond your thoughts. Becoming aware of the ocean that your fishy thoughts swim in. And that the ocean and your awareness, your consciousness is the same thing.
You can focus on the fish, or you can focus on the ocean.
Now that really is a thing.
So I’m done - see what you can control, stop fighting what you can’t. Be at peace, be effective, be joyful.
Easy life.
Go well! Arjuna
PS. Interested in nicer thoughts and/or this ocean of presence?
Here’s a thing for you: