In the words of Don Miguel Ruiz, "Awakening is remembering what you have always known." This profound statement invites us to explore the essence of our being, suggesting that the path to enlightenment is not one of acquiring new knowledge but rather of rediscovering the wisdom that resides within us. In a world often clouded by distractions and illusions, this teaching serves as a gentle reminder of our inherent truth, urging us to peel back the layers of conditioning that obscure our authentic selves.
Ruiz's assertion resonates deeply in a culture that frequently equates knowledge with external validation and achievement. The notion that awakening is a process of remembrance challenges us to reconsider our understanding of growth and enlightenment. Instead of seeking answers outside ourselves, we are called to turn inward, to reconnect with the innate wisdom that has always been present. This journey of remembrance is not merely an intellectual exercise; it is a transformative experience that can lead to profound shifts in our perception of reality and our place within it.
The image / the metaphor
The imagery embedded in Ruiz's quote evokes a sense of nostalgia and familiarity, as if we are being beckoned to return to a long-lost home. The verb "remembering" implies an active engagement, suggesting that awakening is not a passive state but a dynamic process of reclaiming what has been forgotten. This act of remembrance is akin to unearthing buried treasure, revealing the richness of our true nature that has always existed beneath the surface of our conscious awareness.
Diving deeper into the metaphor, we can envision awakening as a journey through a dense forest, where the path may be obscured by underbrush and shadows. Each step taken in the direction of remembrance illuminates the way forward, guiding us back to the light of our true essence. This metaphor underscores the idea that while the journey may be fraught with challenges, the destination is not a distant goal but rather a return to the self—a self that has always been present, waiting patiently to be recognized and embraced.
In the speaker's tradition
Don Miguel Ruiz's teachings are rooted in the ancient Toltec tradition, which emphasizes the importance of personal freedom and the pursuit of truth. Central to this tradition is the concept of "nagual," the unseen essence of reality that transcends the physical world. In this context, awakening can be understood as a process of aligning oneself with the nagual, allowing us to transcend the limitations imposed by societal conditioning and to reconnect with our authentic selves. This journey of remembrance is akin to the Buddhist concept of "sunyata," or emptiness, which invites us to let go of attachments and preconceived notions to uncover the true nature of existence.
In "The Voice of Knowledge," Ruiz elaborates on the idea that our beliefs and perceptions often cloud our understanding of reality. He encourages us to question the narratives we have internalized and to seek the truth that lies beyond them. This echoes the teachings of other spiritual traditions, such as the Sufi concept of "fana," which speaks to the dissolution of the ego and the return to a state of unity with the divine. Both Ruiz and these traditions remind us that awakening is not merely an intellectual pursuit but a profound transformation of the heart and spirit.
Living the teaching
Consider a modern scenario where this teaching might resonate: a young professional feeling unfulfilled in their career. Despite achieving success by societal standards, they sense a persistent emptiness, a longing for something deeper. In this context, the teaching of awakening as remembrance invites them to pause and reflect on their true passions and values. By engaging in practices such as journaling or meditation, they can begin to uncover the dreams and aspirations that have been overshadowed by external expectations, ultimately leading them to a more authentic path.
In relationships, the teaching can manifest in moments of conflict or misunderstanding. When faced with a disagreement, one might feel compelled to defend their position, forgetting the deeper connection that initially brought them together. By embracing the idea of awakening as remembering, both individuals can approach the situation with compassion and openness, seeking to reconnect with the love and understanding that underlies their bond. This shift in perspective allows for healing and growth, transforming the relationship into a space of mutual support and authenticity.
A reflection
As we contemplate Ruiz's profound insight, we are invited to ask ourselves: What truths have I forgotten in the midst of my daily life? This question encourages us to engage in a process of introspection, to explore the beliefs and narratives that shape our experiences. By embracing the journey of remembrance, we can begin to uncover the wisdom that lies within, allowing us to awaken to our true nature and live more fully in alignment with our authentic selves.
