Our eyes and ears, like open windows, do not become upset by what they perceive. They simply see and hear everything as it is (the pure fact, the thing itself) without adding any judgment or emotion. In our daily lives, these senses unconditionally receive vast information shaped by the diverse connections and experiences we encounter. However, once this information reaches our cognitive functions, assessment, judgment, and discrimination begins. It is in this process that our minds often become entangled in confusion and dissatisfaction. The world as it is does not inherently possess qualities of good or bad. Yet, we insist on forming opinions and labeling our experiences, which leads to a cluttered and unsettled mind. This is one of the reasons why clarity often eludes us.
The critical point here is not to suppress or avoid the tendency to judge things as good or bad but to internalize a more profound understanding that these qualities do not inherently exist in the world. They are creations of our minds. Throughout daily life, everyone encounters emotions such as worry, irritation, and frustration. These emotions arise because we perceive certain events or situations; our brain interprets them, forms opinions, and attaches emotions to them, leading to a cycle of processing and reacting.
However, before we focus on how to manage or prevent these emotions, it is essential to recognize something more fundamental: these emotions are not inherently part of our experience. They do not occur in the pure act of seeing or hearing. What actually happens (the pure fact, the thing itself) is that we unconditionally receive the world as it is, and then our mental, emotional, and physical reactions follow. These reactions are like ripples on the surface of water—disturbances created by the way we process information. In truth, our essential nature is always calm. It is our thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations that create disturbances in this calm state.
Understanding that our essential state is inherently calm is a profound realization. Being aware that we live within this calmness is crucial. This understanding is not just a conceptual idea; it is a form of salvation, offering a way to reduce the irritations and frustrations that arise in daily life.
Practicing SONOMAMA (as-it-is-ness)
This understanding can be incorporated into daily life through SONOMAMA, or "as-it-is-ness." This practice involves simply seeing, hearing, and being without the interference of judgment or emotional coloring. By training ourselves to be present in each situation without labeling it as good or bad, we can return to our true nature. This awareness and practice will enrich your daily life and help maintain a sense of inner peace. Let’s take a step towards reflecting on the essence of daily life and embracing our natural state of calm.
Wildflowers at Mount Rainer Words and Photography by K E I K O
Comments