The Journey of Awakening

Granted everyone's path is going to be somewhat unique, though with that being said, here are what I see as some of the key stages in the 'Journey of Awakening'...

A crises, a shift, a spiritual ripening, or grace... call it what you may, somehow presents itself.

Then follows a conscious choice, sometimes after much resistance and hesitation, to respond to an inner pull or calling to become more Awake, Aware, and Clear to what is Here.

There arises an increased willingness and desire to step out of old ways and unconscious behavior, and see with fresh eyes.

With this new openness comes an increased ability to be a more astute and conscious observer of all that arises (physically, mentally, and energetically), without getting entangled, or overly identified in what is seen and observed.

With these newly increased and refined observational skills, old patterns and belief structures continue to fall away. (It is also worth mentioning, the help of a spiritual teacher who has already traversed these waters is of great value. Some may have the maturity to go at it alone, though for most, having a teacher or guide is an invaluable blessing).

Ultimately, when there is great faith in the Teacher and the process, one is able to truly 'let go' and relax into the inherent emptiness of Being that is always Here. With this there is simultaneously a direct insight into the non-reality of self, and with it a total collapsing of the ego-structure. Then, even though the ego-structure may continue to function as needed in this human expression, all of it goes on in a very transparent way, a simple and selfless instrument directed by the Clear Light of Being.

Like the Sun coming out from behind the clouds, all is now clear. Even the journey itself is now recognized as being somewhat dream-like, in the sense that truly You have always been Here, and will always be Here. You took yourself to be a passing cloud, and now You know your Self to be the Boundless Sky, in which all clouds arise, dance, and dissolve.

And with this comes a very simple and direct intuitive knowing:

"All is well... I Am Home."