Hi Burt,

In The Teaching #42 you have “The three Keys to Awakening”. I have tried (in the first key) to observe the breath. I must really be a control freak because as soon as I start watching the breath I get out of the breathing rhythm and have to stop. I have a little success when I concentrate on something else (my hand for instance) and observe the breathing in that way. Do you have any suggestions? I have talked to some of the class members and some of them are really doing well with this method. I am sure if I can get past this breathing frenzy I can continue to the next step. :-) .

I just can't get started :-D :-D .

Thank you for your help, T.

Dear T.,
Thank you for your question. To become aware of how control takes over even in your breathing is a great insight in itself. Please be grateful that you are aware of it since very few people are aware of that. You see, most people live in fear because of their incessant unconscious control. When we start becoming aware of our control, then we also become aware why we are often worried, afraid, apprehnsive and closed heart. So, the first key is becoming aware of our unconscious egoic control. Then, our second step is becoming aware that God (Life) does everything through us and start trusting that above all else. I have found that when people think they are doing well generally is because they are not aware of their control and therefore believe that just relaxing is enough. It is awareness of your egoic control that finally liberates you. You are already perfect in Spirit (LOVE) and therefore need do nothing towards that, what is necessary is awareness of what blocks it. The only block is control. Most people have no idea of the control in their life. All stress, muscle tension, lack of sound sleep, fears of all kinds and general lack of peace are ALL the result of egoic control on an unconscious level. Spiritual evolution is not adding knowledge but subtracting from conditioned living.

With love always,

Burt