Self-identification is like a disease

 How does self-identification happen? What is the real cause of suffering?

 

The self by its nature knows itself only. For lack of experience, whatever it perceives, it takes to be itself. Battered, it learns to look out and to live alone. When right behavior becomes normal, a powerful inner urge makes it seek its source. The candle of the body is lighted and all becomes clear and bright.

 

Self-identification with the limited is the real cause of suffering. Sensations as such, however strong, do not cause suffering. It is the mind, bewildered by wrong ideas, addicted to thinking: 'I am this'; 'I am that', that fears loss and craves gain and suffers when frustrated.

 

Noble friendship is the supreme remedy for all ills, physical and mental.

 

Nisargadatta Maharaj

[I Am That]

 

When we talk to a spiritual friend, it’s like a fire spreads. Vice versa, when the mind is ruminating on this and that, littleness is often the result. Just become mindful when littleness is perceived to knock on your door. Your limited self has once again taken over the steering wheel. What is the antidote to limited living? Go inside and find the source of abundance. Go outside and share the gospel with likeminded friends.