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The Weight of Thought
Deeply ingrained beliefs and attitudes
Good morning, today is a day of remembrance for everyone who was affected by the terrorist attack that occurred on this day 22 years ago. Where were you? That is the question we always get. Where was I? I was living in Boston, at school, dealing with a lockdown. All we knew was that there had been an attack in NYC and that a plane that left Boston was believed to be involved. American Airlines Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175 were the two planes that departed Logan Airport for Los Angeles, but were hijacked by terrorists who flew them into the World Trade Towers in New York. It was a dark day for humanity. And yet, just like every tragedy before and after we pushed on. Resilience. Its in our DNA. Lets get into the newsletter.
The Logan Airport 9/11 Memorial
Last week we spoke about the battle between the observing mind and the thinking mind. Today I want to delve deeper and talk about observing thoughts without attachment, enhancing clarity. Distinguishing between fleeting passing thoughts and more deeply ingrained beliefs and attitudes.
Not enough brain to survive, Thomas Lerooy, 2015. Bronze sculpture at Petit Palais, Paris.
In the labyrinth of our minds, thoughts flit about like fireflies in the night, sometimes fleeting and other times stubbornly persistent.
Let's embark on a journey together—a journey into the heart of mindfulness and the quest for clarity. Clarity not only about the thoughts that dance through our consciousness but also about the intricate tapestry of our inner world.
Observing Without Attachment
At the core of our exploration lies the practice of observing thoughts without attachment. It's akin to standing at the edge of a flowing river, simply watching the water rush by without grasping at it. In mindfulness, we observe our thoughts in a similar way, without judgment or attachment.
Distinguishing Fleeting Thoughts from Deep Beliefs
As we embark on this journey, one revelation becomes abundantly clear: not all thoughts are created equal. Some are like passing clouds, here one moment and gone the next. These are the fleeting thoughts, often triggered by the events of the day or the passing whims of the mind.
Yet, if we delve deeper, we discover the bedrock of our consciousness—our deeply ingrained beliefs and attitudes. These thoughts are like the roots of a mighty tree, influencing our perceptions, decisions, and reactions in profound ways. They often hide in plain sight, masquerading as everyday musings.
A Moment of Reflection
Pause for a moment and consider this: What thoughts have been flitting through your mind today? Are they the ephemeral whispers of passing moments, or do they hint at the bedrock beliefs that shape your worldview?
Have you ever questioned the origin of these thoughts? Are they yours alone, or have they been handed down by society, culture, or personal experiences?
As we journey deeper into mindfulness, we'll explore techniques to unearth these beliefs, to gently examine them without judgment, and to decide if they still serve us.
The Power of Clarity
Clarity is the lantern that pierces the darkness of confusion and doubt. It's the key to understanding the driving forces behind our actions and the emotions that color our daily experiences. By unraveling the intricate threads of thought, we open the door to transformation and self-discovery.
In the issues to come, we'll delve deeper into mindfulness techniques, share personal stories of clarity and transformation, and offer practical exercises to help you explore the depths of your consciousness.
Imagine your mind as a vast, uncharted landscape—an intricate forest where thoughts meander like elusive creatures through the thick underbrush. In this dense thicket of the mind, clarity can often feel like a distant mirage, shimmering just out of reach. But fret not, for your mindful odyssey towards clarity starts right here, right now.
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