Chapter 1: The Importance of Awareness

In our fast-paced lives, we often overlook the beauty surrounding us. We may find ourselves lost in thoughts, daydreaming, or simply not paying attention. At times, we focus so intently on tasks that we become blind to the broader world around us, much like wearing blinders.

Additionally, our busy schedules often lead us to rush from one place to another, barely noticing the journey in between. We may glance around enough to navigate our way, but we fail to truly observe.

Does this resonate with you?

“Nobody sees a flower really; it is so small. We haven’t time, and to see takes time — like to have a friend takes time.” — Georgia O’Keefe

When we neglect to truly see, we can face consequences—accidents, misunderstandings in relationships, or simply missing out on life’s moments. Living in a semi-conscious state deprives us of the richness life has to offer.

An Invitation to Stop the World and See

I often find myself listening more than observing, and I suspect many of you can relate. This past week, I decided to embark on an experiment focused on enhancing my visual awareness. I aimed to immerse myself fully in the present moment’s visual landscape.

This practice was challenging; my tendency to block out visual stimuli was strong. Yet, I discovered how rewarding it is to be fully present.

Why settle for a half-awake existence?

I encourage you to embark on a similar journey of enhanced perception. Consider the wisdom of Carlos Castaneda, who suggests that we can see the world anew.

“I am teaching you how to see as opposed to merely looking, and stopping the world is the first step to seeing. After stopping the world, the next step is seeing. By that I mean what could be categorized as responding to the perceptual solicitations of a world outside the description we have learned to call reality.”

“When you see, there are no longer familiar features in the world. Everything is new. Everything has never happened before. The world is incredible.” — Journey to Ixtlan

Being present allows us to enter a calm and open mental state. Instead of being wrapped up in the past or caught in future anxieties, we can root ourselves in the present.

We don’t have to get caught up in our perceptions. We can simply observe what’s around us and “leave the seeing in the seeing,” as the esteemed Buddhist teacher Dudjom Rinpoche advised, without clinging to our observations.

Avoid commenting on your observations, whether silently or aloud. Let any thoughts that arise drift away without adding to them. Experience the world as it is, free from the clutter of the thinking mind.

Mindful seeing can be practiced at any moment during your day. Not everyone can see clearly, and some may struggle with vision. If that’s your case, you can still apply this mindfulness technique through other senses.

Stop the world and listen to the wind.

Stop the world and feel your physical sensations.

Stop the world and inhale the fragrance of flowers.

Stop the world and savor your meals.

Or engage all your senses simultaneously! Step outside your front door with your senses fully alert.

Concluding Thoughts

Mindfulness is a skill everyone can cultivate. It’s not just for monks in monasteries. You can enhance your mindfulness practice through meditation courses and daily mindfulness exercises.

But you can also start right now. Just stop the world and see.

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