What I understand by "folding everything back into the attention, and how I sometimes do not beat myself up for lapses, and instead constructively move forward is by practicing what Reuters science editor, Sharon Begley, and psychiatrist Schwartz said in one of their books: "Through mindfulness you can stand outside your own mind as if you are watching what is happening to another person rather than experiencing it herself… Mindfulness requires direct willful effort, and the ability to forge those practicing it to observe their sensations and thoughts with a calm clarity of an external witness… One views his thoughts, feelings, and expectations much as a scientist views experimental data – – that is, as a natural phenomenon to be noted, investigated, reflected on and learned from. Viewing one's own inner experience as data allows ( one) to become, in essence, his own experimental subject." I do not have one personal story where this principle has played an important role in my life, but I notice that when I think of myself as Begley and Schwartz suggest, I find myself relieved, freer and more peaceful. That is something like seeing myself as a piece of stardust with and among other pieces of stardust. Or better yet, rather than seeing myself as a drop in the ocean, to see myself as the ocean which happens to be made of many drops. Being as Begley and Schwartz suggest, I find it easier to increase my tendency to allow things to happen, rather than make things happen. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to respond. Warm and kind regards to everyone.
On Jan 11, 2013 Conrad P. Pritscher wrote :