THE OUTWARD NATURE OF THE FLASHLIGHT

I never truly understood the analogy that consciousness is like a flashlight, capable of illuminating everything except itself. I kept thinking I needed to somehow turn this flashlight inward, which seemed impossible.

As I sat in meditation today, still trying to somehow turn the flashlight of my consciousness inward, I realized that it is simply the nature of the flashlight to radiate outwards, and so I let go of all my efforts of introspection.

Suddenly the chatter was gone. I felt enveloped in a deep, all-encompassing peace, and I noticed a smile naturally forming on my face. It was at this moment that I truly understood my own nature. I realized that I am not just a being confined to introspecting or looking within. Instead, I discovered that my true essence is like the flashlight itself, always shining outwards. I understood that I couldn’t comprehend myself in the way I had initially thought because my true nature is to emanate outwardly.

This realization made it clear to me that we are not meant to understand ourselves by turning our consciousness inward as if it’s something separate. Our true self is interconnected with everything around us, and it’s through this outward connection and emanation of love that we find our place in the universe.

This understanding gave me a way to remember I AM, with detachment AND love, and a profound sense of peace.