Want to Know Yourself?
Here are 10 maps of the human mind
I have always been more interested in the inner than the outer. Take me to a big city, spin me round a few times, and I am pretty much lost. Put me on a 10-day Vipassana retreat, and I am fine. Ask me to do some DIY in the house or garden, I will look at you with fear in my eyes, and retreat to my computer. Ask me about consciousness, and we can talk for hours.
Meditation is not a practice or a discipline or a chore for me. It is more the opposite. I find it comfortable and enjoyable. In fact, I need to put a time limit on my morning sitting, so that I am not late for work.
So I have spent a lot of time over the years meditating. And I have spent a lot of time focussed inwards and reading about, studying, and contemplating this here human mind, the inner world.
But, after all this — I still have…of course…so many questions.
I remember when I was younger somebody shared with me what they thought was wise advice: Just listen to your inner voice. And I remember thinking: Yeh fine — but which one? Should I listen to the wise old man, the pleasure-seeking 20-something, or the fearful child. All were equally alive inside me.
And when I sit in meditation and get still — what do I experience? Thoughts. Memories. Fantasies…
