<Exploring the Nature of Time: A Perspective Shift>
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“Does anyone truly understand what Time is? Does anyone genuinely care?” — Chicago, ‘Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is’
A Brief Overview of Time
Time, in its conventional sense, is tracked globally by the Gregorian calendar. While you might not recognize the name, this calendar — also referred to as the Western or Christian calendar — is what you likely use daily to determine the date. Named after Pope Gregory XIII, who introduced it in October 1582 to replace the Julian Calendar, established around 1600 years earlier by Julius Caesar.
In 1592, a significant reform took place: ten days were omitted from the calendar between October 5th and October 14th. This adjustment aimed to accurately set the date for Easter, which Pope Gregory claimed had been misaligned under the Julian system.
The Gregorian calendar is now the civil standard worldwide, commencing on January 1st and concluding on December 31st, divided into twelve irregular months — five with 30 days, six with 31, and one that varies between 28 or 29. This calendar operates linearly, is often compared to currency, and we frequently lament a lack of it or fear its depletion.
This information may not be surprising to you; it likely seems like mere facts about Time, a concept many take for granted as a fundamental aspect of existence. Just as we don’t question if the letter A is A or if red is red, why would we question the nature of Time?
After all, Time appears exactly as we perceive it. Right?
This is where things become intriguing.
We have been conditioned to accept Time so profoundly that questioning it may seem absurd. However, when we adopt a critical perspective, we begin to see that Time cannot be as we conceive it.
I told you this would become fascinating.
Understanding Time Through Space
To grasp the essence of Time more clearly, let’s first examine Space. Science designates Space as the third dimension and Time as the fourth dimension. But what does this really signify? Here’s a straightforward explanation.
Length, width, and height represent the three spatial dimensions. An object possessing these three dimensions occupies Space, thus categorizing it as a three-dimensional entity. This is why Space is recognized as the third dimension — 3D — and why the first three dimensions are identified as spatial dimensions.
All matter resides in Space, where we engage our five senses. The principles of Newtonian physics, which have shaped our scientific understanding for approximately 350 years, are rooted in this third dimension. Newtonian physics, named after Sir Isaac Newton — the figure famously associated with the apple incident — describes mechanical processes involving forces acting on matter.
To comprehend matter, consider your own physical form — your head, hands, toes, bones, organs, blood, muscles, and skin — all of which are tangible elements that interact with your senses, thus existing within the dimension of Space.
The Enigma of the Mind
While you are aware of your physical body, do you recognize that you possess a mind? (For simplicity, let’s agree that you do.)
This leads us to the next inquiry: can you see, poke, or taste your mind?
No, you cannot engage with your mind in those physical ways; thus, it cannot be confined within the dimension of Space, as it does not conform to its laws.
If the mind doesn’t exist within the dimension of Space, then where is it?
Welcome to the dimension of Time — the fourth dimension — which complements Space in the Space-Time continuum. Here, we merge the three dimensions of Space with one dimension of Time, creating a four-dimensional experience. This transcends classical mechanics and allows us to perceive existence in Space while Time flows through it, relatively speaking.
The crux of our misconceptions about Time lies in recognizing that the dimension of Time — 4D — is non-linear and infinite, making it impossible to accurately measure with a finite, linear system. Thus, the notion of tracking Time using such metrics is fundamentally flawed.
Yet, we find ourselves relying on a mechanized calendar that fosters anxiety about Time running out, despite our limited understanding of its true nature.
While a linear tracking system has its merits, more harmonious alternatives exist, such as the 13-month/28-day calendar used by the Mayans and various indigenous cultures. (For further insights on the 13-month calendar, click here.)
Regardless of the calendar you choose to monitor Time, the key to enhancing your life lies in altering how you experience it.
Prioritizing Quality Over Quantity
“Emancipate yourself from mental slavery; none but ourselves can free our minds. Fear not atomic energy; none can halt Time.” — Bob Marley, ‘Redemption Song’
Reflect on a moment when you had the “Time of your Life.” Did you focus on its duration, the day of the week, or the clock’s numbers?
No! Despite the prompt, you likely considered the quality of that experience — the emotions, sensations, and feelings tied to that Time. As you recall it now, those feelings may re-emerge in your body, as your mind conjures positive thoughts that evoke physical responses. If you tried, you could even close your eyes and feel transported back to that moment.
That is the true essence of Time.
Now think of moments when you experienced a flow state or were fully immersed in activities like meditating, playing, or sharing deep conversations.
In those instances, what does Monday signify? What about 5:30?
They hold no real significance. Imagine living a life where you measure time not by hours or profits but by love and joy experienced.
Transcending to the Fifth Dimension: A Time Journey
Many in the evolving consciousness communities speak of ascending from 3D to 5D, yet often overlook that this journey requires traversing through 4D — through Time. The artificial system we label as Time resembles a windowless greenhouse, stifling growth. For us to expand and align with the natural rhythms of life, we must transform our perception of Time from one of scarcity to one of abundance.
Time as an Art Form
“Who controls your time controls your mind. Alter your time, and you change your mind. Change your mind, and you transform your world.” — José Argüelles
It would be remiss not to mention José and Lloydine Argüelles, whose insights into Time and Peace encompass various contributions, including uncovering the Law of Time, which asserts that Time is a frequency, T(E)=Art; decoding the prophecy of the Mayan Timekeeper Pacal Votan; establishing the Foundation for the Law of Time; authoring the 13 Moon Calendar; and initiating globally synchronized meditations for peace.
Liberate Your Mind, and Everything Else Will Follow
If you are currently reading this, you have a unique opportunity to partake in humanity's collective shift in consciousness, reconnecting with nature, each other, and your true Self.
Changing how you perceive Time doesn’t necessitate abandoning clocks and calendars immediately; practicalities like meetings and bills may require adherence to such systems. You can continue to respect your schedule while expanding your relationship with Time by focusing more on your being than your doing. Concentrate on creation rather than consumption. Be present in your interactions. Engage fully in experiences without distraction from past or future concerns. Tune into your heart's resonance and let it guide your actions.
“There is nothing more tragic than to find an individual bogged down in the length of life, devoid of breadth.” — Martin Luther King, Jr.
By measuring life based on its depth rather than its duration, we align with the true essence of Time and reveal our fears surrounding it as unfounded. We may lack control over the quantity of life we live, but we certainly have the power to influence its quality.
If you’re pondering when to unwrap this gift of a new relationship with Time, remember — there’s a reason we say there’s no Time like the present.
(Participate in history by joining The Harmonic Convergence 2020, July 5th-14th, as the world unites to celebrate Time=Art. Visit www.thc2020.com.)