The Sacred Within: Cultivating a State of Being
Preethaji's assertion that "sacred is not a place you go to. Sacred is a state you bring" invites us to reconsider our understanding of the sacred. This profound statement challenges the notion that sacredness is tied to specific locations or rituals. Instead, it suggests that the essence of the sacred resides within us, waiting to be awakened and expressed in our daily lives. Recognizing this can transform our experience of the world, allowing us to infuse the mundane with meaning and reverence.
In a society often preoccupied with external validation and material pursuits, this teaching serves as a gentle reminder of the inner sanctum we all possess. It encourages us to cultivate a mindset that perceives the sacred in every moment, relationship, and experience. By shifting our focus from seeking sacredness externally to nurturing it internally, we can create a more profound connection with ourselves and the world around us. This shift is not merely philosophical; it has the potential to reshape our interactions, our sense of purpose, and our overall well-being.
The image / the metaphor
The imagery in Preethaji's quote evokes a sense of movement and agency. The verbs "bring" and "go" suggest an active participation in the creation of sacredness. Rather than being passive recipients of sacred experiences, we are called to be active creators of them. This notion of sacredness as a state implies that it is not confined to temples, churches, or other designated spaces; rather, it is a quality we can embody and express wherever we are. The felt sense of this teaching is one of empowerment, inviting us to recognize our role in shaping our spiritual landscape.
In the speaker's tradition
Preethaji's teaching resonates deeply within the oneness movement, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the divine essence that permeates existence. Concepts such as dharma, or the inherent duty to live in harmony with the universe, align closely with the idea that sacredness is a state we cultivate. The practice of kenosis, or self-emptying, further supports this notion by inviting us to release our ego-driven desires and open ourselves to the sacred presence within and around us. In this context, sacredness becomes a shared experience, fostering unity and compassion among all beings.
Moreover, the idea of sunyata, or emptiness, found in Buddhist philosophy, complements Preethaji's assertion. Just as sunyata teaches us to let go of attachments and preconceived notions, recognizing that the sacred is not confined to specific forms or places allows us to experience the divine in every moment. This perspective is echoed in texts such as the Bhagavad Gita, where the essence of the divine is described as being present in all aspects of life, urging us to see the sacred in our actions and interactions.
Living the teaching
Consider a modern scenario where this teaching can be applied: a busy workplace filled with stress and deadlines. In such an environment, it is easy to lose sight of the sacredness of our work and the connections we share with our colleagues. By consciously bringing a state of sacredness into the workplace—through acts of kindness, mindfulness, and appreciation—we can transform the atmosphere. Simple gestures, such as expressing gratitude or taking a moment to breathe and center ourselves, can create ripples of positivity, reminding us that the sacred is present even in the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Another application of this teaching can be found in our relationships, particularly during challenging moments. When conflicts arise, it is easy to become reactive and lose sight of the deeper connection we share with others. By bringing a sacred state into these interactions—approaching them with compassion, understanding, and a willingness to listen—we can navigate difficulties with grace. This practice not only deepens our relationships but also fosters a sense of unity and love, allowing us to experience the sacredness inherent in our connections.
A reflection
As we contemplate Preethaji's profound statement, we are invited to explore the ways in which we can cultivate a sacred state in our own lives. What practices or mindsets can we adopt to bring forth the sacred in our daily experiences? Reflecting on this question can lead us to deeper insights about our relationship with ourselves, others, and the world around us. In recognizing that sacredness is not a distant destination but a state we can embody, we open ourselves to a richer, more meaningful existence.
