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Exercise #321

Exercise #321: Self Knowledge
Posted 6/19/09

If you were around when we did Exercise #177, you might remember this technique.

Today, I want you to go on a mental journey. It’s more difficult with the two of us so far apart, especially if your home is full of bustle and noise, but let’s try. Since I’m not there to use the sound of my voice to lead you, you can choose to do this one of two ways.

First, the meditation method: (If you have someone who can read these instructions to you in a calm, slow voice, that works best. Read through them yourself, first, so you’ll know what’s expected.)

   * Before you begin, remember a home - preferably your own, either now or in the past - where you were comfortable and at peace. Part of your journey will be in this home.
   * Find a physical spot right now where you can be comfortable and away from distractions.
   * Sit quietly and close your eyes.
   * Try to calm your mind. Many things will try to derail your calming attempts; ignore them.
   * Now, imagine you’re in that familiar, comfortable, peaceful home.
   * You recognize this room. It brings you a sense of joy to be back.
   * The room is as you remember it, with one addition. A box sits waiting.
   * Calmly, you walk over to the box.
   * Next to the box, you can see items for opening it.
   * The label on it is illegible, but you know this box is for you.
   * You open the box.
   * Inside is . . .
   * (Your helper should now be quiet, while you examine what the box contains.)
   * (When you’re done, slowly open your eyes. Then come show us what you’ve seen.)

or

The short story method: You’ve been busy enjoying your day; taking some time just for you. The doorbell rings at some point when it was inconvenient to answer the door, so you didn’t. Later, you open the door and find a box sitting outside. The label is illegible but you know it’s for you. You bring it inside, and open it. Inside is . . .

Please note the larger word limit.

Word limit: 1500
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Why this is a self-knowledge exercise: Often what’s in that box is something we’ve been ignoring for far too long.

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