Menoculayshunal; Deeper And Deeper

As might be expected, last week's post raised a little ... ire? ...concern? ...confusion... I had been tempted to put a 'no comments' bar on these few posts, which I know are likely to raise contentions, for most of you reading here have an entirely different frame of reference to the lived experience I am attempting to share. That, though, would be unfair. It would not allow for the debate which can lead to insight, nor would it be in the vein of learning that I had to bear myself. It is one of the key reasons it took me so long to reach this "Mac History" stage and remains a real challenge. I own up to you that it is still somewhat 'triggering.' 

Should I continue? Yes, I must, for my own catharsis, which may seem selfish but is, at least, honest. Also, it is hoped to bring you an increased understanding of lives lived differently, without criticism or condemnation. Not that there isn't some of that contained within the tale.

While it came out in different ways in your responses, it might be said that it boiled down to how it can be wrong to care and why would there be consequences, particularly relating to spiritual progress?

Let me be clear. It was not the caring in and of itself that was the problem. Indeed, in the context of compassion, caring is of supreme importance and highly valued. That is why Samvid-ji joined in with Krishna-bhai and me in the puppy clean up. It was not necessarily wrong to seek a home for the girl pup, whom I named Rekha. Consequences? Well, how things began to unravel will be revealed in next week's post. The spiritual (and emotional) fallout for me must also be explored as this is, after all, a memoir.

However, let us today stick with the caring v individualism aspect that Tigger and F brought up in their comment.

Regarding the first thought, 'if everyone pursued focused spirituality to the exclusion of all other...' The simple response (and this is not intended to be trite) is that it is an impossibility and, therefore, not something to be concerned about. The percentage of people who are ready to pursue a purely spiritual path is rare enough, simply because the world is a magnet that most of us cannot resist. That said, of those who do take up such a path, a fair percentage remain in touch with the world and serve it through compassion and Love (whatever their faith structure, for it is also a simple fact that every established faith has Love and Service to others at the core of its philosophy). Furthermore, many ignore the needs and worries of their fellow citizens without having anything spiritual to hang their excuse upon. 

The argument could be that governments in various countries are encouraging the very self-centred nature referred to in the second thought of the comment. The level of narcissism apparent and at large just now is absolutely a concern and, I would aver, in much need of a refocus upon a more spiritual approach! In case the question arises, I would hasten to add here that I advocate for a secular state. Spiritual pursuit is an entirely personal one and ought always to be so. In that pursuit, it would be hoped that the individual becomes a much better human being, a more amenable member of society and a charitable, caring personality. The purpose of spiritual pursuit for the majority who undertake it is to better community and society.

However, a tiny number have worked through all our lives and karmic debt to reach a spiritual point that is almost impossible to impart or share (at least, without being stoned, ridiculed, persecuted...) Part of the process of taking up that highest philosophical path is to detach. This can look cold, aloof, and even cruel to those who remain in the emotional sphere. This is because they are not prepared to look deeper, feel the depth that the sadhu/vi is experiencing, or acknowledge how that frees up the renunciate to Love more widely, more deeply, more compassionately. By not being attached to one person/thing, one becomes pure spirit and able to hold all within one's metaphorical embrace. By detaching from individuality, universality moves in.

Following that path is fraught with hurdles. Wee, sweet, mischievous puppies create a big hurdle. One is pulled back into the individualistic world, one-on-one with another...

...and it will continue...

Now, as an addendum this week, I point you towards a website where you will find much of interest regarding the INDog (and, indeed, other Pariah breeds) - just click the image!