In the Vedic world view we see in general there are two ways to be in the world: we can be in present moment awareness, or we can be in speculation.
We talk quite often about the fact that speculation leads only to suffering, that never is it useful to speculate, that nothing ever is accomplished by speculation. Then someone says, 'what about plans for my future? What about figuring out my life path, career path, relationship path? What about planning my vacation?'
Staying out of speculation is not the same as saying don't make plans. Of course if I am taking a trip I will have to make an itinerary, buy tickets, make reservations. But how I get to the various conclusions reflected by the plans I make, this is the area that is open to change. This is where we can begin to learn how to trust charm.
There is a misconception that, if we don't yet know what to do, then we need to think it over, ponder it, try out different answers. In our world view, however, if we don't yet know what to do, it simply means that we do not yet have enough information to make a choice. And where do we find that information? In present moment awareness. The seeds of every possible future are in present moment awareness, and the more we have meditated, and the more we can insist on being in our senses, the more clearly we will be able to see these seeds of the future and which of them we wish to water. But again, not by figuring it out. Rather, through the detection of charm.
Nature works in the most beautiful, pleasant and simple way to show us where it would have us go, show us in what direction our evolution lies. Through charm. Simply, if it feels like the right thing to do, it probably is. And if it feels like the wrong thing to do, it probably is.
How do we detect charm? By being present. By paying attention. By noticing which direction feels, however subtly, better than the others. Which direction/choice might seem in our mind's eye to be dusted with gold. This will be the direction of charm.'
What do we do when we detect charm? We jump. Before we figure it all out. And if we don't like where we land, we simply jump again.
Charm always will guide us in the direction of evolution. Progressive change. Evolution is why we are here. Life is evolving itself in and through us. We are evolving via life. By following charm, we move in the direction of progressive change, in the direction of greater happiness, greater health, greater wholeness. As we embrace this as our job in life, life embraces us and takes us along for the ride. And through charm, we and life begin to move forward in harmony.
Today I will choose something through a hunch or a silly idea, rather than through 'figuring it out.'
Los Angeles, Labor Day 2011
