Thu, 3 November 2005 Feel free to leave any general comments here. Rants, raves, questions - all are welcome. Category: General -- posted at: 1:39 PM Comments[33] |
Hi Rob,
I have been dwelling on controlling the ego, and trying to learn about the egoic self and what it does, how it affects me (and others)in my life. It's a difficult concept to wrap my head around. I try to practice stillness, and at times the subtle awareness of this stillness comes through. Even a couple of times, I have looked at things, like cars for example, with a sense of detachment - the car seems foreign and familiar at the same time. These moments are very brief, maybe a second or two. This may not be in keeping with what you are teaching here. I'm trying to follow and apply what you are saying. Please let me know what you think.
Regards,
Marc
I have been dwelling on controlling the ego, and trying to learn about the egoic self and what it does, how it affects me (and others)in my life. It's a difficult concept to wrap my head around. I try to practice stillness, and at times the subtle awareness of this stillness comes through. Even a couple of times, I have looked at things, like cars for example, with a sense of detachment - the car seems foreign and familiar at the same time. These moments are very brief, maybe a second or two. This may not be in keeping with what you are teaching here. I'm trying to follow and apply what you are saying. Please let me know what you think.
Regards,
Marc
Marc,
It's great that you've been doing this work. One of the things that starts to happen once we begin to watch our minds is that things can actually appear differently to us. I'd need more information on what you're seeing when you look at those cars, but it sounds like you're having brief moments of stillness, and that's really good.
Next time you notice this happening, try to become aware of your breath while looking at the cars. Relax into a deep breath, and continue looking at the cars (or anything else that seems still). Bring your attention from your breath, to the cars, and back to your breath. See if you can notice an openness when you do.
Let me know if that is something you think you can try. It will definitely allow you to stay in the "still" space for longer periods of time.
Rob
It's great that you've been doing this work. One of the things that starts to happen once we begin to watch our minds is that things can actually appear differently to us. I'd need more information on what you're seeing when you look at those cars, but it sounds like you're having brief moments of stillness, and that's really good.
Next time you notice this happening, try to become aware of your breath while looking at the cars. Relax into a deep breath, and continue looking at the cars (or anything else that seems still). Bring your attention from your breath, to the cars, and back to your breath. See if you can notice an openness when you do.
Let me know if that is something you think you can try. It will definitely allow you to stay in the "still" space for longer periods of time.
Rob
posted by: robscott on Fri, 3/10 11:54 AM EST
Thanks for listening Saeed...
posted by: robscott on Mon, 3/13 07:14 PM EST
No doubt Charles. Wilber has some great stuff going on... I recommend him highly!
Thanks for listening. Means the world to me.
Rob
Thanks for listening. Means the world to me.
Rob
posted by: robscott on Fri, 3/17 06:44 AM EST
Rob -
Just a thought.
Have you thought of providing a list of terms and definitions to help people understand a concept? This would help you to ensure ideas are being relayed in a manner that others can comprehend.
For instance:
What is a “peek experience�?
- Jim
Just a thought.
Have you thought of providing a list of terms and definitions to help people understand a concept? This would help you to ensure ideas are being relayed in a manner that others can comprehend.
For instance:
What is a “peek experience�?
- Jim
Sssup my old sage. Word to you & yours. Keepin' on, keepin' on... and, don't forget to always wear a t-shirt. We may be moving back to the home grown area, will keep your peps posted if so. may have to have a reunion at the art museum or savagee monster's house.
PEACE & LOVE.
Maddie
xo
always connected (even when hormonal)
PEACE & LOVE.
Maddie
xo
always connected (even when hormonal)
posted by: Mad-dog on Wed, 6/28 08:07 PM EDT
Seriously if you read Rob's stuff, then he would want you to buy a t-shirt from me (oh, i didn't ask permission so may get a spankin' one day).
this is a work in progress, while i try my best to raise 2 boys, and continue to keep my husband happy, ifyasmellwhatimcookin'.
www.mhtshirtdesigns.com
this is a work in progress, while i try my best to raise 2 boys, and continue to keep my husband happy, ifyasmellwhatimcookin'.
www.mhtshirtdesigns.com
posted by: Mad-dog again on Wed, 6/28 08:13 PM EDT
Jim, great idea. Defining the words I use would be very helpful. Thanks for the tip.
Rob
Rob
posted by: robscott on Wed, 7/19 10:19 PM EDT
Glad to see Maddie Ham's still rocking. If you ever do come home, let me know...
xoxo,
Rob
xoxo,
Rob
posted by: robscott on Wed, 7/19 10:20 PM EDT
Hi Rob,
Thankyou so very much for making this material available for general consumption.
I'm changing over jobs at the moment (I'm a left-brained IT Accountant) and have been doing a short intensive with your podcasts in the week between roles. I was alerted to the existence of the busy-mind about ten years ago, and have been slowly working through the concepts that you've covered off so neatly in the podcasts to date ever since.
During that time, I've been pursuing meditation with a view to the simple clarity peace can provide - it was somewhat ironic that the alert mentioned above occured in a meditation group at uni where I was studying accounting - I subsequently became very uncomfortable with the capitalistic mentality I had to embrace in my job. I couldn't reconcile this with my understanding of the human condition, and the need I feel for our society to move beyond dollars as primary motive. The search for what I should 'be' has continued for 10 years since with brief forays into counselling and teaching - eventually I hope to be able to do as you're doing, to make awareness of the beauty of sheer consciousness a little more available & understandable to a wider group, with a further hope of contributing to the critical mass somewhere in the future! The example of my own behaviour both towards and visible to others is the small way that I'm moving towards this goal at the moment.
One aspect I could perhaps use further advice or assistance on is the frustration I experience with my own slow capacity to change (time and ego based, I know, but it still exists). That occurs in the sense of eliminating unfavourable habits as well as the lack of ability sometimes to perceive the most expedient way forward. Any extra tools that you could point to in respect of either would be greatly appreciated.
You had mentioned in one podcast the search for the ability to give others the lightbulb moment - one method that I've found useful for myself and have had some success in getting an understanding across to others with is the cost/benefit analysis (an accountant to the very end!) That is to say, that while ever someone who is trying to give up smoking for example holds in their mind that the short term benefit of a puff is greater than the long term cost to their health and their hip pocket, they're going to continue with the habit. Only when the cost/benefit scales shift inside their own head will they actually start with any meaningful change. The playing out of any perceiveable outcome is of further assistance with this - it's how I motivate myself to going to for a run everyday - knowing that I'll feel that much better at the end.
Thanks once again so much for both the philosophy and the meditation approaches - you've provided great inspiration not only for my own practice, but for how I may be able to share this simple joy in human 'being' with others in the future.
Take care and warmest regards,
Thankyou so very much for making this material available for general consumption.
I'm changing over jobs at the moment (I'm a left-brained IT Accountant) and have been doing a short intensive with your podcasts in the week between roles. I was alerted to the existence of the busy-mind about ten years ago, and have been slowly working through the concepts that you've covered off so neatly in the podcasts to date ever since.
During that time, I've been pursuing meditation with a view to the simple clarity peace can provide - it was somewhat ironic that the alert mentioned above occured in a meditation group at uni where I was studying accounting - I subsequently became very uncomfortable with the capitalistic mentality I had to embrace in my job. I couldn't reconcile this with my understanding of the human condition, and the need I feel for our society to move beyond dollars as primary motive. The search for what I should 'be' has continued for 10 years since with brief forays into counselling and teaching - eventually I hope to be able to do as you're doing, to make awareness of the beauty of sheer consciousness a little more available & understandable to a wider group, with a further hope of contributing to the critical mass somewhere in the future! The example of my own behaviour both towards and visible to others is the small way that I'm moving towards this goal at the moment.
One aspect I could perhaps use further advice or assistance on is the frustration I experience with my own slow capacity to change (time and ego based, I know, but it still exists). That occurs in the sense of eliminating unfavourable habits as well as the lack of ability sometimes to perceive the most expedient way forward. Any extra tools that you could point to in respect of either would be greatly appreciated.
You had mentioned in one podcast the search for the ability to give others the lightbulb moment - one method that I've found useful for myself and have had some success in getting an understanding across to others with is the cost/benefit analysis (an accountant to the very end!) That is to say, that while ever someone who is trying to give up smoking for example holds in their mind that the short term benefit of a puff is greater than the long term cost to their health and their hip pocket, they're going to continue with the habit. Only when the cost/benefit scales shift inside their own head will they actually start with any meaningful change. The playing out of any perceiveable outcome is of further assistance with this - it's how I motivate myself to going to for a run everyday - knowing that I'll feel that much better at the end.
Thanks once again so much for both the philosophy and the meditation approaches - you've provided great inspiration not only for my own practice, but for how I may be able to share this simple joy in human 'being' with others in the future.
Take care and warmest regards,
Trish, I've been travelling a bit, and am just seeing your message now. Thank you so much for taking the time to write to me. It means the world that you find value in my talks.
You asked a question in regard to you perceiving your change as slow. You mentioned feeling frustrated at your capacity to change. There is both a spiritual answer to this, and a practical answer - and they're kind of the same...
The spiritual answer is that we are in a constant struggle to manage our perceptions about ourselves. And we can be harsh critics. I would invite you to be gentle with yourself. There isn't anywhere else to go, or anyone else to be. Just watch what you are. When you find yourself frustrated, be frustrated. Bring your attention to your breath, and feel the feeling of frustration. The feeling will change if you give it the space to change. It's not the feeling that's the problem. It's the judgement that that feeling isn't OK. So let it be OK.
The practical answer is that we do want to get better, and we can get better. If you bring the above sense of forgiveness to the immediate feeling of frustration (or sadness, or anger, etc.) you will then have more ability to make change. That will allow for the space to make different decisions. If you want to commit to weight loss, or deeper meditation practice, or whatever, bringing that awareness with you is invaluable. Other tips might include setting goals for yourself, and defining deeply what you want to accomplish in your life. Having yourself know what you're doing and where you want to go is very important too.
Let me know if these ideas are helpful. My last talk addressed some of these issues. So give a listen when you can. It's called "Why We Can't Hold On To Stillness."
I need to thank you for the cost/benefit analysis idea. I like it very much. That is exactly how I think of things, but never gave it that name. Very neat.
Be well,
Rob
You asked a question in regard to you perceiving your change as slow. You mentioned feeling frustrated at your capacity to change. There is both a spiritual answer to this, and a practical answer - and they're kind of the same...
The spiritual answer is that we are in a constant struggle to manage our perceptions about ourselves. And we can be harsh critics. I would invite you to be gentle with yourself. There isn't anywhere else to go, or anyone else to be. Just watch what you are. When you find yourself frustrated, be frustrated. Bring your attention to your breath, and feel the feeling of frustration. The feeling will change if you give it the space to change. It's not the feeling that's the problem. It's the judgement that that feeling isn't OK. So let it be OK.
The practical answer is that we do want to get better, and we can get better. If you bring the above sense of forgiveness to the immediate feeling of frustration (or sadness, or anger, etc.) you will then have more ability to make change. That will allow for the space to make different decisions. If you want to commit to weight loss, or deeper meditation practice, or whatever, bringing that awareness with you is invaluable. Other tips might include setting goals for yourself, and defining deeply what you want to accomplish in your life. Having yourself know what you're doing and where you want to go is very important too.
Let me know if these ideas are helpful. My last talk addressed some of these issues. So give a listen when you can. It's called "Why We Can't Hold On To Stillness."
I need to thank you for the cost/benefit analysis idea. I like it very much. That is exactly how I think of things, but never gave it that name. Very neat.
Be well,
Rob
posted by: robscott on Fri, 8/11 06:30 PM EDT
Thanks once again Rob,
I've not listened to the podcast yet, but I've read your 'blurb' (you do the best blurbs!) and I'm continually in awe of the synchronicities that keep arising at the moment in life. Becoming more and more aware of these has been the best fun in becoming still, and I'm just grateful that this podcast of yours came at precisely the moment I needed this reminder. The synchronicities are good bait I think to keep me practising stillness - I keep wondering if they eventually stop happening and what the world will look like to me then if they do.
I'm hoping your travels were in some way able to provide relief from the heaviness of death that had inspired the podcast before last. I don't know whether your experience would be similar to mine in that due to my own acceptance of death, the harderst part for me is usually the grief of others who count themselves as 'left behind'. In many ways now though I see this as another reminder of the suffering that seems inherent in our human existence, another duality to be embraced with the understanding of the deep joy available in Just Being.
Respect and regards always,
Trish
I've not listened to the podcast yet, but I've read your 'blurb' (you do the best blurbs!) and I'm continually in awe of the synchronicities that keep arising at the moment in life. Becoming more and more aware of these has been the best fun in becoming still, and I'm just grateful that this podcast of yours came at precisely the moment I needed this reminder. The synchronicities are good bait I think to keep me practising stillness - I keep wondering if they eventually stop happening and what the world will look like to me then if they do.
I'm hoping your travels were in some way able to provide relief from the heaviness of death that had inspired the podcast before last. I don't know whether your experience would be similar to mine in that due to my own acceptance of death, the harderst part for me is usually the grief of others who count themselves as 'left behind'. In many ways now though I see this as another reminder of the suffering that seems inherent in our human existence, another duality to be embraced with the understanding of the deep joy available in Just Being.
Respect and regards always,
Trish
Rob, I've recently retired and am taking this time in my life to rethink the next era. I have listened to each of your podcasts twice so far and have read all the comments. One thing I can assure you of is that I'm very serious about making changes in my attitude towards my life and others by using the ideas, information and techniques you talk about in your podcasts. It is my deepest desire to grow old gracefully and not remain stuck in my thinking. You have helped to open a new world for me. I have 'used' meditation over the years to relax or get through hard times, but must admit that when times are good, I put it aside. I'm deeply impressed with the wisdom you've accomplished at what seems to me to be a very young age. I want you to know that your efforts are greatly appreciated. I remember hearing somewhere something along the lines of-- when the student is ready, the teacher will come. That sums up my case exactly. I've downloaded podcasts and purchased books in an effort to find ideas that will lead me through this next phase of my life. So far, you and Pema Chodron have been most helpful. I've been introduced to Buddhist ideas over the years, but could never get past the cultural differences in the examples. A thatched roof or cart with wheels just don't resonate for me. But something about the way you explain things is definitely getting through. I had been reluctant to contact you but woke up this morning with clarity about something that's been driving me crazy. I realized this new understanding came from some of your words sinking in. I had to let you know that. Thanks so much!
Annette,
I am deeply thankful for your words, and so glad you find value in these talks. Enjoy this new chapter in your life and if there's ever anything you'd like to discuss, please feel free to email me directly.
Be well,
Rob
I am deeply thankful for your words, and so glad you find value in these talks. Enjoy this new chapter in your life and if there's ever anything you'd like to discuss, please feel free to email me directly.
Be well,
Rob
posted by: robscott on Sat, 11/25 07:59 PM EST
Hi Rob,
Wow. I'm thrilled to have come across your podcasts and website. You're very down to earth and more concrete vs. abstract and fluffy. I understand the abstract, but the concrete tends to make a better impact and is generally more practical (for me).
I actually downloaded all of your podcasts in one sitting and began listening to them on my commute. You're statement about a lack of authenticity in many representations compared to the idea of we're being lied to is the best way of explaining the material world I have heard. I used to think "everybody is lying" and my mind took me down a path towards fear and the "C" word. Thankfully I have recently chosen the other path. The "get out of my mind path"... I'm glad there are others that are on this path.
Thank you for doing this. This is very valuable.
Steve B
Wow. I'm thrilled to have come across your podcasts and website. You're very down to earth and more concrete vs. abstract and fluffy. I understand the abstract, but the concrete tends to make a better impact and is generally more practical (for me).
I actually downloaded all of your podcasts in one sitting and began listening to them on my commute. You're statement about a lack of authenticity in many representations compared to the idea of we're being lied to is the best way of explaining the material world I have heard. I used to think "everybody is lying" and my mind took me down a path towards fear and the "C" word. Thankfully I have recently chosen the other path. The "get out of my mind path"... I'm glad there are others that are on this path.
Thank you for doing this. This is very valuable.
Steve B
Steve,
Practical, usable information is really important to me. Thanks so much for letting me know you find this information useful. I'm glad you chose to "take the other path." Welcome, and enjoy the road.
Be well,
Rob
Practical, usable information is really important to me. Thanks so much for letting me know you find this information useful. I'm glad you chose to "take the other path." Welcome, and enjoy the road.
Be well,
Rob
posted by: robscott on Thu, 12/21 09:47 AM EST
Patrick,
Thanks for the great suggestion. I think investigating what true success is is really important. Thanks so much for writing in.
Be well,
Rob
Thanks for the great suggestion. I think investigating what true success is is really important. Thanks so much for writing in.
Be well,
Rob
posted by: robscott on Fri, 12/22 11:53 AM EST
Hi Rob,
Listened to yor talk on transparency. Wow. Transparency heals systems naturally. That is a good predictor of the comtinuing expansion of blogging and podcasting. A positive feedback loop can not be stopped. Any new technology that releases energy into the system(or from a system)will expand. Empowerment is its own reward.
Terrific podcasts.
Listened to yor talk on transparency. Wow. Transparency heals systems naturally. That is a good predictor of the comtinuing expansion of blogging and podcasting. A positive feedback loop can not be stopped. Any new technology that releases energy into the system(or from a system)will expand. Empowerment is its own reward.
Terrific podcasts.
posted by: Mike on Sun, 1/14 10:23 PM EST
Dear Rob
Hey you know I’ve been lessening to what you have to say and it all really makes sense to me some times during the day when I’m just walking around and I see some thing and I think about some of the stuff you say and wonder how deep it really goes because in my mind I think there’s is not anuf time any one would be willing to spare to explain every thing you are teaching us though and even though I enjoy lessening to it and I’d like to describe It like lessen to your favorite teacher during class as he goes on with his stories about life and the world around us lol well any way I’ve been thinking about your talks and I think I’ve figured out that most your stuff its just touching the subjects your talking about and we are to build off them on are own and sort of use that as base lines or like a guide book of sorts and try to find things out on are own and live life as it comes because that’s what’s life’s for living right? Well if I’m wrong please tell me ill be looking forward to it.
Justin
Hey you know I’ve been lessening to what you have to say and it all really makes sense to me some times during the day when I’m just walking around and I see some thing and I think about some of the stuff you say and wonder how deep it really goes because in my mind I think there’s is not anuf time any one would be willing to spare to explain every thing you are teaching us though and even though I enjoy lessening to it and I’d like to describe It like lessen to your favorite teacher during class as he goes on with his stories about life and the world around us lol well any way I’ve been thinking about your talks and I think I’ve figured out that most your stuff its just touching the subjects your talking about and we are to build off them on are own and sort of use that as base lines or like a guide book of sorts and try to find things out on are own and live life as it comes because that’s what’s life’s for living right? Well if I’m wrong please tell me ill be looking forward to it.
Justin
Hey Justin,
Thanks for writing in. I hope that these talks are helpful, or that you get something out of them. You're right, they do only touch the surface, and there can be a lot more to do with the information once you hear it.
I do work with people both in groups and one on one to go over this information (and other things) in more detail.
If you ever are curious about anything just write me an email.
Be well,
Rob
Thanks for writing in. I hope that these talks are helpful, or that you get something out of them. You're right, they do only touch the surface, and there can be a lot more to do with the information once you hear it.
I do work with people both in groups and one on one to go over this information (and other things) in more detail.
If you ever are curious about anything just write me an email.
Be well,
Rob
posted by: robscott on Tue, 2/27 09:17 AM EST
I continue to benefit greatly from listening to your podcasts. I've developed a modest daily meditation program and continue to listen regularly to your podcasts. Thank you so much for taking the time to put this information out there for ordinary people looking for ways to improve their lives!
Annette,
I'm so glad you find the talks useful. And I'm really glad to hear you've been inspired to start a sitting practice.
Thank you very much for taking the time to write in,
Rob
I'm so glad you find the talks useful. And I'm really glad to hear you've been inspired to start a sitting practice.
Thank you very much for taking the time to write in,
Rob
posted by: robscott on Thu, 3/1 10:36 PM EST
Kyle,
You are very welcome. Thanks so much for writing in.
Be well,
Rob
You are very welcome. Thanks so much for writing in.
Be well,
Rob
posted by: robscott on Mon, 4/9 09:48 AM EDT
Rob,
I'm a frequent listener and really appreciated the 7/17/06 podcast (I didn't hear it until 4/30/07), Ending Addiction for Good. Last year I kicked a 22-year addiction to cigarettes and alcohol and replaced them with yoga, weight training and daily meditation. I tried to stay very aware throughout the "recovery" process and learned a huge amount about how the brain functions in addicted and non-addicted states. Some of the perceptions you maintain in this podcast resonated deeply with my own experiences. Thanks for a great series of podcasts that obviously spring from a deep compassion.
Integrally Yours,
Tyler Reed
I'm a frequent listener and really appreciated the 7/17/06 podcast (I didn't hear it until 4/30/07), Ending Addiction for Good. Last year I kicked a 22-year addiction to cigarettes and alcohol and replaced them with yoga, weight training and daily meditation. I tried to stay very aware throughout the "recovery" process and learned a huge amount about how the brain functions in addicted and non-addicted states. Some of the perceptions you maintain in this podcast resonated deeply with my own experiences. Thanks for a great series of podcasts that obviously spring from a deep compassion.
Integrally Yours,
Tyler Reed
Tyler,
That is so great! Congratulations on quitting some habits and finding new ones. Going through that teaches us so much. I totally know what you mean. Thanks for listening, and thanks for sharing.
Be well,
Rob
That is so great! Congratulations on quitting some habits and finding new ones. Going through that teaches us so much. I totally know what you mean. Thanks for listening, and thanks for sharing.
Be well,
Rob
posted by: robscott on Wed, 5/16 04:47 PM EDT
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