
Ordinary man, by trying to escape his own minimum obligation of personal suffering, increases his pain and suffering. Expansion beyond one's personal suffering is examined in this talk.
The talk explores the concepts of obligation and slavery within the framework of spiritual work. It examines how true freedom comes through willingly submitting to the "law of the work," transcending the superficial pleasures and distractions of ordinary life. The speaker delves into the transition from a false human being to a real human being, emphasizing responsibility, commitment, and the transformative power of awareness.
This discourse addresses the necessity of obligation and its transformative role in spiritual development. Key themes include:
1. The Nature of Obligation:
- True obligation aligns with the "law of the work," transcending personal desires and aligning with a higher purpose.
- Taking an eternal vow under this law is a pivotal step in becoming a real human being.
2. Slavery to Irresponsibility:
- Ordinary life is characterized as slavery to irresponsibility, driven by superficial pleasures, distractions, and self-satisfaction.
- Breaking free requires awareness, effort, and the courage to face one's inner resistance to change.
3. The Transition to a Real Human Being:
- Becoming a real human being involves preparation, self-mastery, and an understanding of the work’s ultimate aim: to alleviate the suffering of the Absolute.
- This transformation requires moving beyond the life of a false human being and embracing the responsibilities of the work.
4. The Role of Preparation:
- Spiritual schools exist to equip individuals with the tools and knowledge necessary to take on this obligation.
- The speaker warns against focusing on aims like psychic powers or enlightenment, as these are distractions from the work's true purpose.
5. Awareness and Presence:
- True presence requires a blending of "I" (consciousness) and "here" (creation), leading to a balanced state of being.
- This balance enables one to act in alignment with the work and its principles.
The talk concludes by emphasizing that only through commitment to the work can one achieve genuine freedom and purpose, transcending the illusions of ordinary life.
*"A symbolic depiction of the transition from false to real human being, featuring a figure standing at a crossroads. One path leads to a chaotic, colorful world filled with distractions, while the other ascends toward a radiant, golden sphere labeled 'The Work.' The figure is partially illuminated, symbolizing awareness, with subtle threads connecting to the sphere. The background includes celestial motifs and a faint overlay of an hourglass, signifying time and transformation."*