Question:
No matter how much I remind myself that there is no “I” or “self”, thoughts and painful past memories flood “me” and “I” get identified. What should “I” do?
Sri Prabhuji:
Self reminder , Self enquiry and Self affirmation are different things.
We have a deep rooted sense of Self identity who am I. “I am body/mind/intellect” is the Self identity. This Self identity is based on transaction with society. Who am I really ? Real I has to be investigated through Self enquiry.
Self enquiry who am I ? A sincere and genuine investigation is required to uproot deep rooted beliefs about Self identity. A genuine self enquiry alone can help. You can do it yourself or do it under guidance of Realized Master. Genuine enquiry leads to Clarity and Conviction and establish yourself in real Self – non judgemental witness sakshi.
Self reminder/Self assertion: Our Self identity is based on our subconscious impressions. Our conscious mind is 5 % while subconscious mind is 95%. Self remembrance and Self assertion are conscious mind activities. Subconscious impressions have to be cleared for establishment in real Self for deeper transformation.
Genuine Self enquiry followed by Self remembrance, Self assertion is helpful.
During the process of Self enquiry our own biases interfere. Guidance of a realized Master is helpful to overcome biases which prevent us from seeing the Reality.
All that happens, happens in and to the mind, not to the source of ‘I am’. Once you realize that all happens by itself ( call it destiny, or the will of God or mere accident), you remain as witness only, understanding and enjoying, but not perturbed.