Are You Teachable? We all like to think we are. The key word here is "think." We are teachable only when we are willing to look at points of view, principles and theories other than our own and decide what is true for ourselves.
In the faith community I grew up in, exploring other religions, spiritual practices or beliefs was condemned as "worshiping false gods." Because of this, I was "unteachable." It took decades for me to overcome my fears and follow my inner call to explore different theologies and philosophies. To my delight, without invalidating any of them, I came to a deeper Spiritual understanding of all of them.
But this is not about what church one attends. This is about our overall willingness to be teachable. It is about our ability to stand for what we believe, while remaining flexible enough to ponder other concepts. It is about overcoming the need to be right, and admitting when we are wrong.
Many people sit in church on Sundays, or in class at school, or at a workshop or seminar, nodding their heads in agreement with the leader, perhaps even making notes. Then, when the service or event is over they close their notebooks as well as their minds and go back to life as it always has been. The message, seminar, book, workshop or class was not assimilated. Even a perfect lesson can have no effect if it is not received and comprehended.
Achieving Mastery is not magical, it is metaphysical. It manifests through the application of Universal Principle in our habitual thoughts, words and actions. All of our learning is impotent without application of the teaching. Mastery is the result of direct experience.
Paradoxically, Mastery can also come through direct revelation. This is what we "know that we know that we know," we just don't know how we know it. The ability to accept paradox is a step to, and sign of Spiritual Mastery.
For example, Jesus was criticized by the Pharisees because his disciples picked grain on the Sabbath, which was contrary to Jewish religious law. Jesus responded, "The Sabbath was made for man, man was not made for the Sabbath."
So, the law or principle of "keep holy the Sabbath;" the need to take time away from our labors to rest, renew and worship is not invalidated because of the disciple's hunger. As you may or may not know it is not easy to be holy and hungry at the same time. Having some lunch improved their Sabbath.
So...are you teachable? Remember, school's never out for those seeking Mastery. On to your Mastery!
RevAli
