These two statements seem to be true:
This happens in very simple ways. "I think I'll take up golf," is a fine idea. But, if the notion is accompanied by illusions about your present abilities, the amount of time and practice it takes just to hit the ball straight, the number of "failures" you will face on the putting green, then the chances are you will give up after a few attempts at the game. Disappointment. Yet, this doesn't happen to everyone who has the idea "I think I'll take up golf." These folk bring with them a set of illusions, but when the illusions are shattered, they stick with the game. Reality sets in and they begin the long, difficult and enjoyable process of becoming a golfer.
Whether you take up golf or not is fairly inconsequential. In other areas the disappointment has more repercussions. Spirituality addresses us at a very deep level of our psyche. More than anything else it shapes who we are. Spiritual illusions are, therefore, more troublesome than other kinds of illusions. To realize I will never be a decent golfer is disappointing, but I can easily live with that. I'll learn the game of chess. More within my skill range! Illusions about spiritual matters in which I have made an investment to the depths of my being—well, that's a different matter! The world is populated with many disappointed former "seekers" who tried spirituality or religion, "got burned," and walked away with a new cynicism.
When illusions are shattered how do we make the move to reality and not to disappointment?
In the Lindisfarne Community understanding we say this:
a) It helps to begin with a more realistic view of the way people are. Just because some folk seem to have a little "enlightenment" does not then mean they are perfect. If you project perfection onto people, you will be disappointed.
b) Give others space to make their mistakes, to grow and to change.
c) Focus on your own growth and development, not that of others. You can't change them. You have the possibility to change yourself. You change yourself through the daily disciplines of the spiritual life.
d) Look for Christ in all.
+Ab Andy
a) Illusions followed by disillusionment often leads to disappointment
b) Illusions followed by disillusionment sometimes leads to realityIn many endeavors it is easy to begin with grand illusions about where we are going and what the outcomes will be. In the end Illusions are always shattered, for illusions are false ideas. It may take a long time, and some illusions are very enduring. Yet, finally the rigors of life have a way of dispelling illusions.
This happens in very simple ways. "I think I'll take up golf," is a fine idea. But, if the notion is accompanied by illusions about your present abilities, the amount of time and practice it takes just to hit the ball straight, the number of "failures" you will face on the putting green, then the chances are you will give up after a few attempts at the game. Disappointment. Yet, this doesn't happen to everyone who has the idea "I think I'll take up golf." These folk bring with them a set of illusions, but when the illusions are shattered, they stick with the game. Reality sets in and they begin the long, difficult and enjoyable process of becoming a golfer.
Whether you take up golf or not is fairly inconsequential. In other areas the disappointment has more repercussions. Spirituality addresses us at a very deep level of our psyche. More than anything else it shapes who we are. Spiritual illusions are, therefore, more troublesome than other kinds of illusions. To realize I will never be a decent golfer is disappointing, but I can easily live with that. I'll learn the game of chess. More within my skill range! Illusions about spiritual matters in which I have made an investment to the depths of my being—well, that's a different matter! The world is populated with many disappointed former "seekers" who tried spirituality or religion, "got burned," and walked away with a new cynicism.
When illusions are shattered how do we make the move to reality and not to disappointment?
In the Lindisfarne Community understanding we say this:
We know too, that our community must be for “sinners” and not “saints.” We are ordinary people struggling with the realities of day to day life in an imperfect world. We are aware, therefore, that our way of living will always be incomplete. When people join the Lindisfarne Community, as any other intentional community, natural illusions and idealism about community will quickly be shattered. However, disillusionment leads towards reality. Discovering Christ among us is the beginning of true community.A few reflections:
a) It helps to begin with a more realistic view of the way people are. Just because some folk seem to have a little "enlightenment" does not then mean they are perfect. If you project perfection onto people, you will be disappointed.
b) Give others space to make their mistakes, to grow and to change.
c) Focus on your own growth and development, not that of others. You can't change them. You have the possibility to change yourself. You change yourself through the daily disciplines of the spiritual life.
d) Look for Christ in all.
+Ab Andy