The blissful state of no self

 "I found myself without desires

  and without knowledge.

 

 There was nothing left but love,

 the state of witness was left behind; 

 there was only love, all pervading,

 all embracing, absolute. 

 

 There were no crucial experiences, 

 no soul-shattering visions.

 I just ceased imagining myself to 

 be what I never was and there was

 nothing to replace the unreal with. 

 

 There was no need to look for

 replacements - the nothingness 

 was the fullness of understanding, 

 love and silent peace." 

 

 Nisargadatta Maharaj

 

Strictly speaking, the expression enlightenment should only be reserved for people who witnessed the ceasing of the universe into a blissful state of no-thingness. It’s a merging with the Force that pervades the universe, yet, is beyond it at the same time. 

 

Yet, as the Course in Miracles stated, this conversation with God is highly personal and thus not very helpful for the others, should we be able to make the journey back to tell others about it. Hence, the Zen advice, ‘Before enlightenment, chop wood and carry water, after enlightenment, chop wood and carry water!’ is certainly a good one.

 

In contrast, the ‘I Am that I Am’ state, the satori observation of acting in a state of ‘no self’ is one that many of us experience is something we all have access to, and we can share our experiences and learn from each other. Every child can tell you about state of witnessing what is, the flow of simple being and the presence of limitless love. It’s really not such a big deal.