Seeing Things For The First Time

(7.20) Many seem to think knowledge applies itself which is, by no means, true.

How did it happen?

Sometimes we can pinpoint exactly when a source point has been created. Source Points are when new dialogues are introduced.

There are four gross aspects of mind:

manas (mind)
citta (consciousness)
buddhi (intelligence)
ahamakara (conception of one’s individuality/ego)

(1) Thoughts or desires begin in mind. If we do nothing, the thought/desire ends. (2) If we deliberate or consider it, this is consciousness. (3) Intelligence decides wether to pursue thought/desire. (4) If we pursue thought/desire into reality, it is passed onto ego, an individuals sense of identity apart from others.

In some cases, the event is so insignificant that we are unaware a new dialouge has begun. These are the ones that most often highjack us-when our guard is down and we are relaxed. Just like a physical altercation, if you are relaxed, yoy will end up in better shape. So it is with a mental altercation. The catch is, this can also be a source point for suffering. Suffering is when you feel responsible for what was not in your control and avoid responsibility for what was. The longer you do either, the more intense your suffering. The sooner you resolve either, the sooner you can let go and move forward.

Progress happens when we integrate knowledge we have learned. Without progress, we will continue on the wheel of suffering. Many try to busy themselves with distractions or addictions. Some people do this to intentionally to hide from confrontation, others do this ignorantly because we can not see awareness they have never been aware of. This is why integration and transformation always seem so profound, because we are constantly seeing things for the first time.