"Woke" vs Actual Awakening

Buzz words... Culture... Trends...

While by no means not included in the whole of one's process, let's explore what the spiritual path may and may not include. While images of the Buddha may illicit notions of peace and non-violence, the relationship between Buddhism and the samurai warriors of ancient Japan is an excellent example of the distinction between an expression of truth and a blanket understanding of 'this' means 'that.'

In fact, this type of misunderstanding - not of violence and non-violence solely - but of labeling and distinctions as being absolute, is exactly the essence of Buddha's teachings of emptiness (Sanskrit: Shunyata). The interrelation of beings, things and ideas is so intrinsic, that to speak of something as individual or distinct is, upon understanding beyond the mind, devoid of unique identity.

As many in the yoga community speak for justice and a new order of equality, let's also examine the inclusion of non-inclusion. 'I am this,' 'they are there,' and such sentiments are true and valid in the physical reality and there is nothing to say about the degree to which one "should" or "should not" engage in such dialog. However, realizing my own distinctions and sense of rightness in action (deeds) and intention, still one moves as a perceived individual.

Even this is not to say that one's opinions or anything else are inherently right or wrong. However, I feel a warning against 'group think' or mob mentality is in order in these times. The collective sounds wonderful, in theory, but history is rife with examples of how politicians, leaders and any striving for power, whether "good" or "bad" in the eyes of history, was never forthright in their intentions, manipulating the populace to their whims of control and indoctrination.

Be aware, yogis, for our path is varied and these differences are sacred. I love you.