Three Lines of Work
We embody what is higher by being present. In our first line of work, we try to discern the voices of the lower self in their raw brutality or false refinement. When we pray, we can learn to hear if our hearts are in the temple or in the bazaar. When we taste those virtues–courage, prudence, humility and moderation–which Plato associates with the Ideal State, our work with others will be stronger: more direct and more compassionate, as required.
The King of Hearts and Higher Centers
Witnessing one’s insignificance or helplessness in the face of higher forces creates awe and humility. In the presence of natural majesty and beauty, our usual world (48) is shown in relief against a higher realm of cosmic order. In the presence of works produced by conscious beings we marvel at the fully developed microcosmos man, his capacity and achievements. Repeated experience of world 12 alters our molecular substance. Dramatic shocks which evoke world 6 within us produce humility, which may be a necessary prerequisite to true courage. The attitudes created, of courage awe and humility penetrate our second and third lines of work. We are receiving and reflecting the light, approaching others with new understanding, and new school tasks with a firmer sense of purpose.
Receiving and Reflecting the Light
The way we work with our experiences of higher centers is determined in the moment. Privacy is a quality of inner experience. Solitude and silence are reliable means of sustaining a delicate state. Being sensitive to the state of another person is an important aspect of external consideration.
“When two or three or more are gathered together, there am I.” Since the ego is the arch-enemy to spiritual work, much of our work is strongest among others. This is true of simple tasks like washing the dishes. And of more complicated ones, like rehearsing for a play or cooking a meal. There is little room for, or need for, the illusion of “I.” One plays one’s part as is necessary.
Then, and not until then, is there a possibility of receiving and reflecting the light at its most refined and luminous, the light of higher centers.
“In the faces of men and women I see God and in my own face in the Glass.”
– Walt Whitman
Ruth Atkins is one of the editors of https://fourthwaytoday.org, and a former educator. For another recent article by this author, see https://fourthwaytoday.org/?s=Ruth+Atkins