This is a powerful quote that shines a light on this period of time when countries are at war, and people are so polarized and at odds with each other.
“The real enemy is the unexamined mind that unconsciously projects its suffering onto the other, and then blames and scapegoats the other for its suffering.” ~ Richard Forer
An unexamined mind is one that doesn’t reflect on its thinking and beliefs, or motivations or behaviors. A person with an unexamined mind goes through life simply reacting to the world around. In this state, the mind is under the control of the ego with its beliefs and conditioning.
The ego cannot accept anything that threatens it, and so many people do not face their inner challenges, will suppress their feelings and create a different reality that feels right to them. Unfortunately, other human beings realize this, and have been manipulating and influencing people to remain in this state of avoidance and disillusionment for their own benefit. The unaware continue to grasp for the answer to their problems and buy into the promise happiness.
An unexamined mind doesn’t take responsibility for its own feelings. It shows up in relationships when one unhappy person blames an other for the way they are feeling… or the life they are “having” to live. It’s always someone else’s fault.
It reveals itself when a part of society that feels downtrodden projects its suffering and resentment on to another group. When one country resents another for a conflict in the past and invades as a payback…
When we begin to observe ourselves, we become more conscious of our own mind state and the feelings and thoughts that arise. Being an observer of our thinking and behavior is the first step towards bringing about any sort of change… small or huge.
For those of us on a spiritual path, self awareness is called witness consciousness. The ability to step back and witness without judgment is key in many traditions.
Noticing without judgement is a practice in itself. You begin to question your thinking. Asking: “Is this really true, or just a belief I have?” “What am I believing that contributes to my discomfort?” “When I am believing this, what is the feeling in my body?” “Is there a limiting core belief?”
In psychology, this inward looking reveals our shadow side. The shadow is the hidden part of ourselves that our ego is unable to recognize or accept. It cannot admit to something that is against its belief about itself. At a basic level, if we think of yourself as a good person, then you will deny anything about you that might be seen as bad.
It takes courage to take this inward looking step. That is why being with others on this journey can be a great support.
I am grateful to have many people in my life who are feeling the awakening to Truth and a new understanding. May we continue to bear witness, support each other and share the light of transformation.
Namaste
If you would like to connect with me or with others on this path, then please reach out below.
Find Your Middle Ground 
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