“The original, shimmering self gets buried so deep that most of us end up hardly living out of it at all. Instead we live out all the other selves, which we are constantly putting on and taking off like coats and hats against the world’s weather”
― Frederick Buechner
In a previous post I invited us to ponder the question found in the famous Zen koan -- “What was your original face before you were born?” I suggested that our “original face” is our true self. Today I want to continue that theme by reflecting on the above quote.
Buechner points out that our “original shimmering selves” get buried and that we lose contact with them. We end up living from all kinds of “other selves” in reaction to the demands of daily life. For example, I frequently dress up in my “not good enough self” or my "fearful self." Both cause me a great deal of distress.
Contemplative practice helps us reconnect with “our original shimmering selves.” Meditation enables us to behold that part of our selves which is created in the image of God. Contemplation helps us recognize that we are deeply loved and cherished by God. Awareness of the Divine Presence within brings life and freedom.
What is the path? Keep sitting, keep praying, keep beholding the Divine Mystery within. Bit by bit we discover the shimmering treasure buried deep within our souls.
~ PR