VIDEO LINK: Finding Freedom (Excerpt)
Renowned spiritual teacher Adyashanti delves into the complex and often misunderstood concept of freedom. Rather than treating freedom as a distant goal or an achievement to be reached, Adyashanti proposes a deeper understanding that challenges conventional thinking.
Table of Contents
The Misconception of Freedom as an Achievement
Adyashanti begins by addressing a common misconception: the idea that freedom is something to be achieved. He points out that many individuals live their lives striving for a sense of freedom, viewing it as a destination or an ultimate state to be reached.
This perception is rooted in the belief that freedom, whether defined as the kingdom of heaven, nirvana, finding God, or any other term, is something external that must be earned or deserved.
This line of thinking can be deeply ingrained, making individuals feel unworthy of freedom due to their human imperfections. Consequently, they engage in relentless efforts to achieve various forms of freedom, whether material, emotional, or spiritual.
Adyashanti observes that the desire to attain freedom can manifest in countless ways, such as acquiring material possessions, amassing wealth, gaining power, or seeking spiritual experiences.
The Illusion of Attainment
Adyashanti highlights the futility of chasing freedom through external means. He notes that life itself seems to be set up to frustrate these attempts.
Despite the temporary happiness that material acquisitions like a new television or a luxurious vacation might bring, such contentment is fleeting and does not touch the deeper essence of human existence. He underscores that relative happiness, achieved through external means, is always short-lived.
The true essence of freedom, according to Adyashanti, lies beyond the immediate gratification of desires. He cites the teachings of Buddha, particularly the concept of impermanence, to illustrate his point. The realization that everything is transient can initially be unsettling, but it also reveals the impermanence intrinsic to life and the futility of seeking lasting satisfaction from temporary means.
The Beauty of Impermanence
Adyashanti suggests that instead of viewing impermanence as a challenge, it should be seen as a beautiful aspect of life. Life itself is a constant flow, forever in motion, and this perpetual change is what makes it vibrant and creative. The freedom found within this flow is not something to be achieved or grasped, but something to be experienced in the present moment.
In this sense, freedom is not something static that can be permanently possessed. Even significant spiritual experiences that evoke a sense of vast freedom and well-being are transient. The moment one tries to hold on to these experiences, they disappear.
Adyashanti explains that this happens because true freedom arises from a lack of resistance. When there is no resistance to life, freedom is naturally experienced.
Freedom in Everyday Life
To illustrate the concept of freedom, Adyashanti draws a distinction between two kinds of freedom: freedom from and freedom to.
While freedom from is about avoiding unwanted experiences, freedom to is much deeper. It involves being open to experiencing all aspects of life without resistance. This form of freedom is more profound and enduring.
Adyashanti encourages viewers to see life’s flow and impermanence as a source of liberation rather than a source of fear. By recognizing that freedom is not a goal to be achieved but a natural state that arises when resistance is abandoned, individuals can find a deeper, more sustainable sense of freedom.
By embracing the transient nature of life and letting go of the constant striving for attainment, one can discover a profound sense of freedom that is always available in the present moment. Adyashanti’s teachings offer a transformative perspective, inviting individuals to explore the freedom inherent in the flow of life.
Recommended Reading
“The Way of Liberation: A Practical Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment” by Adyashanti is a clear and direct guide for those seeking spiritual awakening. Adyashanti offers a no-nonsense approach to enlightenment, cutting through complex philosophies and providing practical steps to understanding one’s true nature.
He emphasizes self-inquiry, inner stillness, and the importance of shedding false beliefs to experience genuine freedom. The book’s simplicity is its strength, making profound spiritual truths accessible to readers at any stage of their journey. It’s a concise yet powerful tool for anyone ready to explore the depths of spiritual liberation.
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