--- In FairfieldLife@yahoogroups.com, "Susan" <wayback71@...> wrote: > > > > > > > > > But I don't think any term like enlightenment does anything but cause > > confusion. Maharishi's use of the term and his many variations of its > > characteristics and methods of attaining it did more to obfuscate than > > illuminate (in my opinion). In contrast, I find lots to recommend in Jill > > Bolte Taylor's description of her experiences, which regardless of the > > etiology, seem both valuable and realizable. > > I too like Jill Bolte Taylor's insights because it is kept simple and clear. > If I were in a contrary mood, I might ask if we have to destroy something to > get that experience. And not just by a stroke, but my modifying how the > brain functions. I don't think so, but the question is reasonable. One > reason I think that these awakened states are a good thing is when I think > back to the sense of unity and light that seemed to permeate my childhood > years, I think that was really good and that was and is a flavor of > awakening. I do think you are right that all these concepts of enlightenment > can just cloud the waters, create misconceptions and lead people to intensely > look in all sorts of directions and buy all sorts of stuff - and miss the > point. Personally, I find it a challenge to drop the whole MMY rubric. > Guess that' one reason I can get hung up on the brain functioning. > >
I had the exact same experiences as her, same scenario and outcome. Big time. It was extremely enlightening in that it was illuminating but I would not just wish a stroke on anyone for all the possibilities of how it can go to push the energy centers of the faculties around. Fortunately we both got enough of a whole back working that we can live on pretty well and even talk about it. But the perspective was illuminating spiritually along the way. However, en lieu of having a stroke there is certainly spiritual practice that can be done if one has the discipline to do it. I'd recommend pursuing that also because now the science is showing that it (spiritual practice) indeed does change and enhance how a brain can work. An aware person of modern spirituality and science certainly can sit up and have the experience. If only by the science, people should take the time to come to meditation and not just talk or just write about it as an idea. Take the time in the practice. It is different than surfing. -Buck > > http://www.ted.com/talks/jill_bolte_taylor_s_powerful_stroke_of_insight.html > > > > > > ***
