On Feb 2, 2009, at 8:26 PM, enlightened_dawn11 wrote:
there are many ways of gaining enlightenment. first off, it is not an either/or proposition-- i see the process of gaining enlightenment initially like a lightbulb that flashes on, and then off, with no regular interval to its timing. an experience of enlightenment, then darkness for awile, then another flash, then darkness. eventually the light stays on, and perhaps someone feels confident enough to say, "hey everyone, i am enlightened!" and they begin the process of watching the lightbulb to see how far the light is shining out, and when it appears obscured, and what the public proclamation and challenge does to their ability to integrate the inner light into their outer life. and perhaps the light appears to go out again. a learning process which takes time; more integration in daily life. and after some more time, the lightbulb stays on, for good, under all circumstances, and then they have a choice to say, or not to say, "i am enlightened", depending on what they feel like doing; hold themselves up as an example of enlightenment, or quietly allowing the bulb to burn bright within. so to make the assumption that because someone proclaims their enlightenment, that they will suffer a downfall, and have to start again from the beginning, is a false assumption. we as human beings learn by doing, and testing and challenging, and if we are true to ourselves and our desire for gaining enlightenment, we will eventually be successful, regardless of what we may proclaim along the way.
Does this happen before or after the magical elevator ride?
