Deepening "the Wish"
AIM: NOT TO ROT
WISH: GET CREMATED
A few realizations: Work attempts shouldn't become a routine & questions should not become a competitive sport. Never follow the beaten track. Don't have questions but be in question.
Do not become attached to the fruits of your labors.
Don't ruin a good day with a work attempt.
I am a little fly observing my self: a pile of shit
What is the point of group meetings to discuss what we did yesterday only to plan on questions for tomorrow?
Is there a cure for the disease of yesterday?
Dividing the "Aim"
Intellectual: To know, to understand.
Emotional: To Feel, to be Felt
Instinctual: To do, To do it now
It: To breathe, to be fed
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Dear Seeker,
As you embark on this journey of self-inquiry and transformation, I offer you this simple guide to help you engage with "the work" in the spirit of Mr. Gurdjieff's teachings, as found in his writings.
Remember, the goal is not to become a slave to a system of rules or rigid practices but rather to cultivate a conscious, questioning approach towards your own psyche.
I. Preparation
Find a quiet space: Create a peaceful environment where you can sit comfortably with minimal distractions.
Set aside dedicated time: Establish a regular routine for practicing the Work - even just 15-30 minutes each day can yield significant results over time.
Maintain an open mind and heart: Approach this journey with curiosity, humility, and a genuine desire to understand yourself more deeply.
II. Self-Observation
Observe your thoughts: Begin by simply watching the stream of thoughts that flow through your mind.
Don't engage with or judge them; merely observe their presence, duration, and nature (e.g., worrying, planning, daydreaming).
Notice your feelings: Pay attention to the emotions that arise within you throughout the day.
Again, don't try to change or suppress them; simply acknowledge their existence and the circumstances that trigger them.
Examine your reactions:
Watch how you respond to various situations, people, and events.
Identify patterns in your behavior, both physical and mental.
III. The Work: Questioning Assumptions
Identify beliefs and assumptions: As you observe yourself, become aware of the underlying beliefs and assumptions that shape your thoughts, feelings, and actions.
Question their validity
Ask yourself: Why do I believe this? Is there evidence to support or contradict this belief?
Engage in a dialogue with yourself, challenging your assumptions and exploring alternative perspectives.
Reevaluate and refine: Based on your self-inquiry, adjust your beliefs as needed, discarding those that are no longer valid or useful.
IV. Applying the Work to Daily Life
Practice mindfulness throughout the day: Carry your awareness of thoughts, feelings, and reactions into your everyday activities.
Engage in self-talk: Dialogue with yourself about your assumptions and reactions during various situations. Then STOP. Observe the effects of your internal dialogue.
Reflect on your progress: Set aside time each week to review what you've learned from your self-observation and questioning.
V. Additional Tools
Journaling: Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and insights can help clarify them and facilitate further exploration.
Group work: Gather with like-minded individuals to share your experiences, ask questions, and support one another in the work.
Meditation: Incorporate a simple mindfulness or contemplative practice to develop concentration and inner stillness.
Remember that this work is an ongoing journey of discovery, growth, and self-compassion. Be patient with yourself as you explore the depths of your being, and trust that each insight gained brings you one step closer to understanding and embracing your true nature.
In love and service,
Alroy
