by Vimala Thakar, sourced from here.
SEED QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION: How do you relate to the notion of not carrying any residue over into the next experience? Can you share a personal story of a time your commitment to observation changed your relationship? How do you practice observation while staying checked in?
This is really powerful for me. I have experienced this observer role and my behavior and response, and have been able to adjust in the morment and respond more positively. I have also failed and experienced the residual feelings that the author describes. It is plain and simply awareness. My awareness is still growing. I can see the impact on the relationship with myself and others... very cool!
It's not possible to not carry any residue over into the next experience. Our experience becomes partof us and carries over. We may resolve and/or become free of some or even a great deal of residue, but not all. We never become 100% clean of all residue. The residue we're stuck with sneaks up on us and overlays a next experience. My commitment to nonjudgmental observation always changes my relationship, helps it be present and honest, free of game playing. You practice observation by practicing becoming aware of and letting go of interferences such as preconceived notions, efforts to control, judgments, predictions, goals, and practicing simply being in the present.
The master doesn't seek fulfillment. Not seeking, not expecting, she is present, and welcomes all things. - The Tau te Ching. Practice, practice, practice - today I practice being in this day, again. When I do, I live in the fullness of this eternal now,.... for one millisecond, but what joy!