Can Spiritual Practice conquer illness?
Original hexagram is Thunder over Mountain; 62
The Expansion is Lake over Heaven; 43
The Kernel is Heaven over Heaven; 1 BY WAY OF Lake over Wind; 28
Our spiritual practice provides us with the nourishment that we need in order to grow, emotionally, mentally and some would even argue physically. And, of course spiritually. It is medicine for the soul, and food for the body. We are not separate from the world, rather we are connected to it and we are better served when we meditate with it. What is important to realize is that the world cannot offer us anything, really. If we want to seek the truth as Lord Buddha did, then we have to be in the world, but not of the world. Where we run into problems is believing in what we are experiencing to be real and buying into the emotion we may be experiencing. What causes illness? Many say unhappiness.
When we can put our spiritual practice into our daily lives, and live it as a philosophy; a way of life, then we begin to experience a breakthrough. As if those frozen lakes that reside within us begin to break apart, and allow the sunshine to penetrate the depths of our existence. In these moments, our faults and emotions no longer have power over us, rather we have power over them~ and progress occurs.
The question is more like, what can happen as a result of my spiritual practice? Strength, vitality, creative action, and an awakening of power that can lead to enlightenment~ a development of higher nature. We gain clarity and direction, confidence and courage. In the end, a sublime success.
If illness is caused by unfortunate circumstance, whatever that might be, then it would seem appropriate to cultivate whenever possible the things that promote and foster fortunate circumstances. What does that mean? Engage in virtuous activity, allow your intentions to be set on helping and serving the common good, and be careful as to not exhaust yourself in worldly things. The text indicates that now is a time for change, and extraordinary measures are needed. These only come by way of our spiritual practices. It is a time to take action with gentleness~ continuous, but gentle penetration to the meaning of the situation.
In the end, the world can not offer you anything, only what you have accomplished in your spiritual practices. Have a wonderful Wednesday, and enjoy your prayers.
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