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Refrain From All Criticism by Astrid Fitzgerald So how do we begin to observe what is going on in our minds? I found that first of all there has to be a preference for stillness of mind and a strong willingness to give up the constant brain-chatter and giving voice to it. Hence there is the need for a firm resolution not to entertain circling thoughts and endless inner conversations. Not to entertain circling thoughts requires remembering, wakefulness and self-observation. And that’s not easy, at least not at first. The method of non-judgmental observation of our inner and outer worlds has been used for thousands of years. It is sometimes referred to as "awareness in action" or "self-remembering." Objective observation could be called the "scientific" or rational approach to Self-recovery. It is the perfect means of keeping us from falling asleep and resorting to habitual thought and action. Granted, at the outset we are looking from an undisciplined mind and clouded perceptions. But we have to begin with the tools we have. To observe objectively takes practice and effort. We have to look from a still mind and from calm emotions as we go about our affairs. We simply watch the movements in the mind, the heart and the body from a higher vantage point, without any comment, judgment, or regret. That which is watching will eventually crystallize. At that point it will be experienced in its pure form as the Sole Witness, the silent observer beyond the ordinary mind. his method of observation is purifying and healing in itself and supports all other efforts on the path to self-knowledge. As our perception is cleansed, we see more and we see more clearly and accurately. In turn, the impurities and hindrances that are truly seen in the moment by the Witness will lose their strength and in time dissolve altogether. With repeated efforts at objective observation, we can eventually bring automatic responses under control and gain mastery over the mechanical movements in the mind and heart — the inner conversations, the justifying, criticism, imaginings, unhappiness, negativity and anger. I have discovered that when I refrain from criticism and do not give expression to negative thoughts and emotions the rewards are immediate I feel all worries and concerns fall off my shoulders, and I experience a sense of lightheartedness and joyousness. This enlightened and cheerful disposition is contagious and, not surprisingly, is reflected in those around me and in the atmosphere. PRACTICE 1. Make a firm resolution to refrain from all criticism and not to give expression to negative thoughts and feelings. Write down these injunctions on a piece of paper and post it where you can see it readily. 2. Practice objective observation whenever it comes to mind. To help in this endeavor it is useful to recollect between activities, by sitting upright in a chair and letting the body and mind come to rest. Then, become aware of that which is always present, always watching. At times this awareness can be experienced as a watching from a higher vantage point, beyond the physical body. When this awareness of watching is firmly established go about your work and endeavor to remain in this state. Remember that the spiritual practice of observing the human instrument is one of non-judgmental or "disinterested" watching. Mental commentary is not objective observation. If this occurs, simply tell the mind to be still and step further back or watch from a higher point, as it were. As you go about the day, remember that you are the silent observer as well as the observed. 3. Find time to read and reflect on spiritual knowledge or listen to some fine music such as Gregorian chants. Let the mind and heart be immersed in the knowledge of truth and healed by the music. Astrid Fitzgerald is an artist, writer, and a passionate student of the Perennial Philosophy. Her books include An Artist’s Book of Inspiration ? A Collection of Thoughts on Art, Artists and Creativity, and Being Consciousness Bliss — A Seeker’s Guide. http://www.astridFitzgerald.com
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