Why is it important for us to merge our inner reality with the outer, and what does it mean to do that? I pose this insightful question to encourage those that are on the spiritual path to expand their awareness by putting their inner wisdom into practice. Once we’ve learned to listen to ourselves through a deep self acceptance, we are ready to begin merging with others, our environments and our passions. It would not be possible for us to unify with these things without first getting a good understanding of who we are as an individual and of course, as a spiritual being.

When I refer to the term “unify” or “unity”, I refer to the basic concept of creating harmony. Initially, we reach an understanding of ourselves by being open to the conflicts, shadows and disturbances in ourselves and in our lives. It is very tempting and easy to generate large amounts of wisdom and awareness and then to begin to feel separate and resentful towards others for not embodying these great teachings that are revealing themselves to us. We become self righteous spiritual leaders who aren’t truly relating to the world through an open heart, but rather in judgment and separation. There is always separation on the beginning of a spiritual path, because when we start this journey we begin to see all that is unlike God, as we are coming deeper into self-realization. It is not possible to achieve awakening with this mindset, as true awakening is the absolute realization of oneness, which is love and unity with all that is.

I write this post today, to offer some guidance as to how we can continue opening and growing on our spiritual journey. When we put our inner wisdom into practice, we will move more deeply into the embodiment of the Christ-like virtues and self mastery. Self mastery is a term that refers to the human’s ability to unify with universal consciousness and to live a life in alignment with your true self through connection and openness to ourselves and all of life. One of the best ways to move into self mastery is to relate to other people, not as you see them but as they actually are. We can do this by learning how to listen. Believe it or not, listening is a great challenge in a society driven by the need for self-realization. To be present is to become fully enraptured in the moment; it is to step out of a mode of projection and need, and rather into a space of trust, compassion and awareness.

As we relate deeply to others we will notice many aspects of ourselves rising and falling. As we begin to assimilate our experience of the other person, we lose touch with them and begin to internalize who they are through how they relate to us or through what they say means relative to us. The practice I propose is to listen without attachment. True listening is done with the heart. When we truly listen to another person we communicate with them beyond words. In fact, it is not possible to truly listen to another human being, without first acknowledging that they are sacred, divine carriers of universal light. In sum, we are unifying with others by recognizing their inner truth–their inner light. When you put this practice into play, you will notice riches beyond your wildest dreams arising and showing you pathways you did not know existed. Your life will come alive in meaning. You will establish rich and meaningful connections with other human beings, you will begin to see the reason for their beingness in your life, and you will learn to move forward without experiencing resentment, guilt and pain.

I invite my readers today to go through the rest of their day or evening connecting deeply with another person, even if it’s the barrista serving you coffee at Starbucks. Open yourself to a conversation with them and practice listening. Here are some practical steps to guide you on your practice:

•Notice the body language of the person you are speaking with.
• Pay attention to that person’s presence with you. Are they making eye contact?
• Become aware of the tone of voice they are using.
• Stay connected to them fully in the time that you are together.
• Are they speaking quickly or slowly?
• What energy are they exuding? Are they excited, hurt, scared, proud?
• Do they need you right now?

Happy Listening!