Not Who You Are But Who You Want to Become
Dear friends,
Our minds tend to focus on what is. We see things as static. Much of the time this is okay, but it has serious disadvantages when dealing with people. That is because, when dealing with humans, direction matters more than a snapshot in time.
Suppose you know of someone who is incredibly lazy. He just sits on his couch all day and alternates between drinking beer while watching TV and sleeping (also while “watching” TV). One day he decides to go out and shoplift a candy bar. Good for him! He’s at least moving some energy. Moving energy can be redirected, but non-existent energy is... well... non-existent. [Note: For those of you who sit around a lot and drink beer, this is NOT an exhortation to go steal a candy bar!]
Now suppose you heard of a great saint who decided to go out and steal something. That would of course be extremely disappointing. Why the big difference for the same act? Because one is moving in the right direction, and the other the wrong one. Whence, "Not who you are but who you want to become."
This world is a bit chaotic. Gains come and go. Situations come and go. Even life itself comes and goes. One day you're a hero and the next day a goat. The only thing that really matters is whether we are moving in the right direction (towards Spirit) over time or not. A snapshot of a moment in time cannot tell you that.
Too, the path is not straight, so dips come and go. A broader vision is also required. It may even look like you are moving away from your goal, but it's just the nature of the road. What then are we to do?
It is intention that is paramount. And not some sort of occasional affirmation about being better, but a real heartfelt commitment to the Truth and to face those things in us that, while perhaps uncomfortable to view, need to be seen, acknowledged, dealt with, and eventually overcome. Have patience, courage, and faith. This is a game we ultimately cannot lose. Let us set our intention always to be better, do better, and move forward. What option do we really have, anyway?
Blessings,
David G., manager
For the staff at East West