a reply to:
buddha
Thank you for that advice.
I like the idea of a kind of dream diary but, honestly, when I wake in the morning, even if I 'pay attention' from the moment I open my eyes, there
seems to be nothing to remember to write down!
On the rare occasion I do remember anything I tend to have a really vivid recollection and it stays fresh in my mind for a long time afterwards.
It seems like all or nothing!
A few years ago I kind of tried out various techniques to increase dream activity and encourage lucid dreaming. In a matter of only a couple of weeks
this did lead to my one and only experience of a lucid dream. However, I kind of quickly 'forgot' to engage in the mindfulness practices that were
required (too many other things requiring my attention at the time) but it is perhaps something I may try again.
As to your second point: I quite agree!
I feel it is important to recognise that 'good' largely arises from positive intent and a conscious choice by humans (as 'bad' largely arises from
negative intent and a conscious choice made by humans). If we do not do this then we shift responsibility from the individual to an outside force.
This makes it easier to do and justify 'bad' things/deeds, whilst fostering a kind of cynical detachment from 'good things/deeds'.
If it's all just "god" then we have little invested in humanity either way. We can simply dismiss either 'good or 'bad' out of hand (depending upon
ones proclivity).
We need to accept personal responsibility as individuals, and as a society, for our actions and their consequences.
In so doing a kind of natural morality may arise (in the majority of people) and our own sense of right and wrong (guided by natural feelings of
self-preservation, healthy guilt, love, respect etc) may become central to decision making, both as individuals and as a society.
As with most things it is much more meaningful and effective, and the consequences more far reaching, when we come to conclusions and understandings
ourselves through insight, experience and introspection, instead of having ideas and concepts thrust and forced upon us.
I would argue the
only truly meaningful ideas, conclusions and concepts are the ones that we arrive at for ourselves.
edit on
6-12-2017 by Indrasweb because: (no reason given)