Learning to Let Go and Process Emotions

Discovering the Pathway of Surrender

David R. Hawkins, M.D., Ph.D., is one of my favorite authors for many reasons, including the fact that I attended an event he hosted several years before his passing in 2012. A long-time resident of Sedona, Arizona, David R. Hawkins helped millions of people learn the power of the pathway to surrender. His many books have helped me tremendously, especially if you ask my incredibly tolerant, loving wife.

Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1927 and passing away in 2012, Hawkins left a lasting legacy as a psychiatrist, spiritual teacher, and prolific author. Dr. Hawkins began his journey in medicine and psychiatry. He pursued his education with a deep desire to understand the human mind and emotions. Over the years, his path took a profound spiritual turn, leading him to explore the mysteries of consciousness and the spiritual realm.

Dr. Hawkins wrote over 20 books during his lifetime. His works primarily focus on psychology, spirituality, and consciousness research, contributing significantly to these fields. Some of his most notable books include "Power vs. Force," "The Eye of the I," "I: Reality and Subjectivity," and "Letting Go: The Pathway of Surrender."

Letting Go of Controlling the Uncontrollable

As a recovering control freak, I've read all his books. One of my favorites is Letting Go, The Pathway of Surrender, published in 2012. His work is compelling because he was a spiritual sage with the credibility of a highly educated man who inspired me. His teachings offer spiritual guidance that is accessible and practical to people from all walks of life.

Hawkins distills complex spiritual concepts into simple, actionable steps anyone can follow, making spirituality more approachable for people of all backgrounds. He understood the difference between exoteric and esoteric faith. In other words, he rose above the insanity of arguing any one faith as the only way because he knew unity comes from a higher, spiritual knowing.

Dr. Hawkins empowered us to let go of negativity, embrace positivity, and transform our lives. He taught us how to let go of control without losing our minds, even though many of us trudge through our dark night of the soul before finding our way back to normalcy. His teachings were inclusive and non-denominational. They resonate with people from various religious and spiritual backgrounds, fostering a sense of unity and understanding among diverse groups.

The Map of Consciousness and Solfeggio Frequencies

As a former psychiatrist, Hawkins incorporated a scientific approach into his work. He introduced the "Map of Consciousness," a model that categorizes human emotions and levels of consciousness. This scientific foundation adds credibility to his teachings.

As another example, if you listen to certain kinds of music, they affect your energy. Meditating to Solfeggio frequency videos on YouTube calms my mind and soul. Everyone knows the feeling I describe as the "God chill" when we hear a tune that hits us just right. Music can change us. Here's an image revealing the alignment of Solfeggio frequencies with the Map of Consciousness.

Dr. Hawkins showed us how to let go of negative emotions and forgive others, a profound pathway to emotional healing and personal growth even if you don't believe in consciousness as the gateway to elevated thinking and faith in unity.

Nine Life Lessons from "Letting Go: The Pathway to Surrender"

Let's dive into the practical aspects you can use to help yourself feel okay even when you don't. I've read Letting Go twice, and I'll never get tired of the lessons he reveals for personal growth and inner peace:

1. Embrace Emotions: Hawkins teaches us that it's essential to acknowledge and embrace our emotions, even the uncomfortable ones. Allowing ourselves to feel our emotions fully paves the way for healing and inner peace. That's hard to do if we use any drug to numb the pain of human existence.
2. Release (Process) Negative Thoughts: Negative thoughts and beliefs can hold us back from realizing our full potential. Hawkins encourages us to let go of these mental burdens, freeing ourselves from self-imposed limitations. In allowing us to feel good, bad, and ugly, we transcend the physical and emotional pains that hold us back.
3. Forgiveness: Forgiveness is a powerful tool for healing and growth. Whether we forgive others or ourselves, it can release the emotional baggage that weighs us down and hinders our progress.
4. Surrender to the Present: Far before the world read about the Power of Now from Eckhart Tolle, Hawkin taught us to surrender to the present rather than resist the present moment. This surrender can lead to a deeper connection with our true selves and inner tranquility. After all, the present is the ultimate gift because we're not regretting the past or fearing what may never be in the future.
5. Ego vs. Spirit: Hawkins distinguishes between the ego and the spirit. He encourages us to detach from the ego's demands and align with our inner spirit. This shift can lead to a more fulfilling and purposeful life. When we transcend ego-driven thinking and living, we lift our consciousness closer to acceptance, unconditional love, ac
6. Unconditional Love and Compassion: Love and compassion are central to letting go and finding inner peace. Unconditional love is when we can love what we hate. That takes lots of practice! Hawkins underscores the importance of cultivating these qualities in our interactions with others. For example, I used to get upset with stupid drivers even though I could be one. With years of practice, I never get upset when the slow dude drives in the fast lane. Instead, I pray for him, thinking, "If that dude knew better, they'd be better." It's akin to forgiveness in action.
7. Seek Truth: Seeking truth and authenticity is a crucial lesson. Hawkins believes that by aligning with truth, we can experience profound personal transformation and live a life of greater integrity.
8. Radical Acceptance: Another fundamental teaching is learning to accept ourselves and our circumstances without judgment. Acceptance can lead to a more profound sense of inner peace and contentment. In 12-step programs, we understand the Serenity Prayer: "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."
9. Spiritual Growth: Ultimately, "Letting Go" reveals that the journey of surrender and letting go is a path to spiritual growth and enlightenment. It offers us a way to connect with our higher selves and discover our true purpose. We align our thinking more vertically, and we learn to let go of controlling the uncontrollable, even if you're a recovering control freak like me.

In conclusion, David R. Hawkins provides valuable insights for personal growth, emotional healing, and spiritual development. His teachings inspire and guide millions of individuals to a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.

Thanks for reading my article, published originally on Medium, where writers get paid for being creative. When not coaching and advising emerging entrepreneurs, business owners, and investors, I help people improve their "mental wealth" and quality of life by writing, speaking, coaching, and advocating for mental wealth and well-being. Learn more at www.CliffordJones.com, or subscribe to The Clarity Letter on Substack.