I had recurring dreams, the interpretations of which repeatedly stated that I “was not seeing what was before me.” I was confounded, sad, and confused. What was I not seeing? I couldn’t figure it out.
The memory of these dreams re-surfaced when I was around people who, in my view, clearly were not seeing what was very apparent to me. I saw myself in them. I was so dismayed by the message my dreams were sending me that I had a strong desire to become aware of what I wasn’t seeing. I wanted to cure my blindness.
In my quest, I read, listened, meditated, attended workshops and seminars, and saw a therapist. I had no proof that any of this would help me to see, but I was willing to try anything. I was open to whatever was available that might open my eyes, my ears, my heart, and my mind and allow me to see the clear manifestation of reality.
Most people are adamant that they perceive the reality of what is before them. They become angry if another interpretation is presented. This anger disguises a lack of openness. It is a tell-tell sign of resistance to knowing truth. One can disagree with the expressed opinion of another. However, an intense emotional reaction to that expression indicates that an arrow has hit its mark.
For example, someone might say with concern, “You look tired all of the time.” Perhaps the comment could have been more skillfully made; however, you blow up and scream, “Why are you always so critical?” You could have laughed it off. Your response may indicate that you believe there is something about you that is worth criticizing.
When I react with intense emotion, I ask myself, “what is the truth within me that my reaction is pointing to?” I may need to develop better ways to react to my stress and that of others. How can I stay calm in the midst of turmoil? What techniques can I learn and practice to enhance my inner and outer peace?
Sometimes the issues are deeper. Many of us don’t want to evolve. We don’t even recognize our resistance to growth. Human beings have an inherent need to move beyond our present circumstances. The inability to do so expresses itself in unconscious mannerisms – commenting enviously on the upward mobility of others, sensitivity to benign comments, irritation at inconsequential incidents, general feelings of discontent with no known reason, mental and physical fatigue, and the aforementioned intense emotional reaction.