Enlightenment
Our essential nature is usually overshadowed by the activity of the mind. When the mind has settled, we are established in our essential nature, which is unbounded Ĉonsciousness. ~ Patañjali
Transcendence may be sustained during the waking state. This is a 5th state of consciousness: enlightenment, also known as quietude or quiet consciousness.
In the state of quietude, even as thinking transpires, there is a backdrop of mental silence. Being present in the moment, enlightenment affords focus, clarity, and keener awareness.
When the mind is calm, how quickly, how smoothly, how beautifully you will perceive everything. ~ Paramahansa Yogananda
Though nattermind will never cease, as it is an integral agency of the mind, the mind’s incessant noise loses its grip on the way to quietude. In enlightenment, a backdrop of calm exists even when the mind is engaged.
The noise of nattermind sphincters awareness and engenders a sense of individuality. Quietude clears the conduit to empyreal Ĉonsciousness.
The key to growth is the introduction of higher dimensions of consciousness into our awareness. ~ Lao Tzu
Bliss
There is inherent contentment in enlightenment. Bliss become an ordinary experience.
When the mind is pure, joy follows like a shadow that never leaves. ~ Buddha
Bliss is the entirely natural feeling of joy in being alive. It is visibly evident in every infant that is well cared for.
Beyond pain and pleasure there is bliss. ~ Nisargadatta Maharaj
Bliss comes from living in resonant harmony with Ĉonsciousness. Bliss biologically fortifies enlightenment by acting as a calmative on the system.
This bliss is not like the intoxication of wine or that of riches, nor similar to union with the beloved. The manifestation of the light of consciousness is not like the ray of light from a lamp, Sun, or Moon. When one frees oneself from accumulated multiplicity, the state of bliss is like that of putting down a burden; the manifestation of the Light is like the acquiring of a lost treasure, the domain of universal non-duality. ~ Abhinavagupta
Too much may be made of bliss. Bliss is a symptom, not a goal.
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The term enlightenment is especially apropos, as the worries and suffering that burden the Collective are lifted.
I hope for nothing. I fear nothing. I am free. ~ Greek philosopher Nikos Kazantzakis
