Example is a Teacher

When we see a person happy and content we want to know how their happiness was attained. We observe the way they act in all situations, what they say, and their lifestyle. The example of their very life teaches us the way to find happiness for ourselves.

In everyday living we observe the interaction of adults and children. Children follow the example of the adults they are around. Children are molded more by example and their own experiences, than by book learning or what they are told. If a child is treated well with fairness and respect, he grows up possessing those same qualities. If a child is abused or lied to, that makes up the background for his adulthood.

Our own pure thoughts, words, and actions can bring about change in the hardened ones if they are given enough time and exposure. Because all are in search of happiness, and happiness is a soul quality, apart and unaffected by changes in the natural world and human mind, eventually a person exposed to good will find their inner source of happiness. (Perhaps not in this lifetime, though, in reflecting on the states of mind of hardened criminals.) Sometimes many lifetimes are spent in the search for happiness; going down paths of selfish living before turning around and following the path up the mountain to the ultimate summit where the clear view stretches out forever--free of any briars, any obstacles encountered from the limited convoluted attitude of selfishness.

To raise our own level of fullness in joy and happiness we need to live lovingly and conscientiously. Every day. Every moment of every day. Then we are also being a good and uplifting example to those around us. In the interim, the lives of spiritual masters and saints serve as role models--their lives showing us how to attain lasting happiness.

Recognizing a 'Spiritual' Teacher

In the early stages we are attracted to a spiritual teacher by our level of comfort and synchronicity with that person, or through their teachings, by observing and agreeing with their lifestyle, or admiring the way they handle events in living--and whether they love all non-partially, with equal caring concern. We feel uplifted thinking about this person and in their presence. We feel inspired to do good and be good for the sake of ourselves and all humanity.

The impact on us by a spiritual teacher crosses many planes of our existence. Upliftment, inspiration to become better people, these are the feelings we receive through contact with the spiritual teacher. The spiritual teacher's job is to show us the way to become masters over our actions--to be able to control our mind and not have our whims control our thinking and action. The spiritual teacher can inspire us because he or she has found the Self, and this realization opened the door of access to infinite wisdom.

The spiritual teacher's ability to raise our consciousness into enjoyment of self-effulgent happiness is proof of the direct transfusion--mind to mind--soul to soul. That is the gift of such a relationship with a person that pur

We can not teach what we do not know and understand firsthand. Every moment we experience change. The backdrop is the conscious spirit that energizes and guides the movement in every atom of mental and physical existence.

The spiritual teacher leads us to realize that our own pure conscience is our ultimate guide. Till we can calmly follow our own cleaned up conscience, a person, a master--in person, or through the guidance of written recordings, is there for our assistance.

Integrating Spiritual Insights into Everyday Living

When we get a flash of insight about our lasting nature, we bask in its warmth for awhile--then we seem to forget its message. After many similar flashes we consciously start thinking about the revelation's usefulness in our daily life.

A plan for integrating perception of knowledge from the first flash is:

1. Keep a small notebook handy and write down the insight as it occurs.
2. At day's end review what was recorded.
3. Allow a minute to think about how the insight could be useful in daily living--to bring a greater sense of harmony into life.
4. Plan and put the new insight into a written affirmation.
5. Next morning, upon waking, repeat the new affirmation and repeat it often during the day. Stick with this affirmation until the next insight comes.

Spiritual knowledge is meant to be useful in regular daily living. there is no other usefulness for it--it is meant to be integrated into our moment to moment actions. A jar full of spiritual vitamins does no good sitting on the shelf. Each tablet of insight must be consumed so it can circulate fully through our system, energizing us with awareness of our inner state of vibrant lasting happiness.

We perceive and receive spiritual insights by the example of others more consciously-spiritually evolved than us; by reading uplifting writings and scripture from the ages; and by feeling the uplifting effects from these sources in our own increase in joy. It is then up to us to integrate our new insights into our life.

To Be Divinely Human

To be divinely human is to express each facet of our being with highest regard for ourselves, others, and all creation. It is taking the spiritual insights that we have integrated into our daily lives and then sharing our expanding consciousness with others through caring actions--

Article © 1998  Susan Kramer

Leaf Artwork is from the 'Leaves of Finlandie...' collection © 1998 Susan Kramer

more Susan...