When someone has a big spiritual moment, there’s a tendency to think that this is the final and total spiritual experience or realization. This is particularly true if the experience was enjoyable because if something feels good, why wouldn’t you want that all the time?
Well, there are lots of things that feel good that should only be temporary. Otherwise, you can end up in addiction. But more to the point, the initial experiences we have are just a taste of truth. They offer us perspective. That perspective is a like a candle in the room, and now that we have come out of the darkness a little, we can see a few–not all–of our attachments.
This is where the spiritual inner work begins.
Unfortunately, many people try to hold onto this experience, teach this experience, or otherwise consider their spiritual journey to be over. This leads to all kinds of problems and suffering.
Awakening Is a Beginning Video
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4 Comments
Hi Jim, thanks for the great video. I get your point on "wounded/incomplete healers"- I feel that indeed this can potentially do more damage than good. However, what is your stance on, say, if someone genuinely does have a set of skills to help others to get out of the darkness, even though they themselves are maybe not as advanced- but then again, we are constantly evolving, right? What is that magic threshold in your view, where it is safe to say, the ego has been sufficiently shed to not cause any harm? Thanks 🙂
Hi Katia,
I would say that there are 3 important things to do to move forward:
1. Know your limitations. One of the biggest problems incomplete healers and teachers have is that they don't know their limitations. This is a challenge, however, since we often don't know what don't know. Although, there are things like dealing with trauma that are best left to professionals, unless you are a trauma specialist.
2. Go slowly. Building a practice takes time any way, but stepping into this role of healer/teacher benefits from going slowly as you begin to figure out who you work best with. If you find that you are too drained and overwhelmed by working with people, then you have not crossed the threshold you mentioned.
3. Have a spiritual teacher or mentor. This person should be able to help you understand your limitations. They can also ground you in the moment and help you continue to grow/heal as you need to. The more free you are, the more clearly you will see those you want to work with. That allows you to be of the most service to others. When you are too lost in your own attachments–like the desire to get approval by helping others, which many people are stuck in–you can cause harm to yourself and others.
This was a great question. Let me know if it helps. If you want to talk to me about working with me, feel free to reach out.
Super clear, and I agree with you there. We all have so much to learn, no matter where we are.. Thank you, Jim!
You're welcome, Katia. 🙂