In the pursuit of a "spiritual" life, whatever one might consider this to be, many attempt to achieve a state of enlightenment. It is quite interesting however to discover what is commonly thought of as enlightenment and what must be done to acquire it. For instance, one commonly proposed road-map suggests that to reach this honorable state one must recognize their ego as false and sabotaging. In doing so the individual must face this deep, dark, misleading area of themselves and transcend it. If you're like the many common, everyday spiritual trekkers I can only imagine that you might find this notion of giving up the ego a little unsettling. Don't worry, this is your wiser Self alerting you to the awareness that you are venturing into murky waters with this one!

This proposal for enlightenment is guilty of three offenses: villain-"izing" the ego, misidentifying the Self, and misrepresenting enlightenment. Let's take a fairly quick yet thorough evaluation of each offense. First, the impression is given that the ego is pointless and cumbersome; it leaves the seeker feeling as though the ego is inherently flawed. The ego, however, when used to its natural capabilities can actually enhance your life experience. The ego is not a mistake of creation but rather a wonderful aspect of your larger Self.

Second, the ego should not be touted as the Self. When it is proposed that you must attain selflessness to achieve spirituality or enlightenment, the underlying implication is that the ego is the Self and that it is the originator of the individual's identity or consciousness. This is not really the way you are constructed. The ego is really the product of your individual identity and it in turn gives rise to your unique personality and the characteristics that you possess.

Third and finally, enlightenment is not some final destination way of yonder that is awaiting your arrival. You must realize that there is absolutely nothing wrong with your here and now. As a matter of fact, it is in being in your here and now that you will experience the fullness of Self and thus Spirit. Enlightenment occurs when you acknowledge the spirituality of your entire Self and realize the nature of your reality. The one who is enlightened does not go anywhere or loose themselves. Loosing yourself defeats the purpose of the experience. Tell me, how will you know when you have "gotten to" enlightenment when you have no personality to make such a judgment? How will you be able to enjoy your spiritual experiences when you rid yourself of that aspect of yourself that forms the basis of your preferences and desires?

Listen to that uneasy feeling in your stomach when you are told to dump to your ego for enlightenment. The broader part of you is completely satisfied and looking forward to experiencing the present as it is.

Learn more about this author, Andrea Gardiner Ph.D..
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