I have read in your works, with regards to various thoughts and feelings, that we should do the interior work of learning to look at "what is talking to us, and not where it is pointing". But when I try to look at some painful thought, it forces me to look at what it wants me to see! Then I lose myself again...only to find myself distracted by this. Please help! (From student correspondence)...

Next time we wonder how it's possible that someone doesn't like us, let us take a deep breath, and take a look at how we feel about them in that same moment. If we're honest, we'll see and understand two things at once: first, and perhaps most important: there are, in fact, parts of our nature that are not very likable...

From my experience, real change is very challenging. On the other hand, one can see an instant transformation in individuals who participate in televangelistic-type events. Why does it have to be so much work to make true changes in ourselves? How do I stop worrying about what the events of my life mean to me and just allow them to transform me for the good? I know from my worldly experience t...

Can character and true strength ever really be taught? What are the recognizable aspects of true character? Do we develop character by working to eliminate bad habits, or is it only by creating good habits in the first place that character is built?...

Classroom Talk: 10/30/2021 - Most of us are filled with wants that change nothing about who we are, let alone fill the emptiness we all feel within. If we must ask for something, let it be for greater wisdom; for possessions and powers come and go, but Real Wisdom is now... and forever.

I find little comment on your website regarding political action or defense from immediate physical threats. The message seems to be that resistance or effort to promote a change in a perceived problem is counter-productive and only prolongs the issue. Where does one draw the line (if at all) when perceived attacks are repeated or increased? Are any political involvements valid?...

Do you have any suggestions for making use of idle time such as waiting in lines, traffic, doctor offices, etc.? I feel bored with my job and my life in general. In the past I would have looked for a new job or a time-consuming hobby. Can self-understanding clear up the boredom, or should I take outward steps to do so? I am not motivated by my present job. Is there inner work I can do to relie...

It seems that everywhere I go today, everyone has their own idea of what the Truth is and why I should support their idea or value system. So my question is, as best I can state it, what is Truth and how do I come upon it for myself? Ideas abound today about what the nature of Truth is...I don't know what to believe. Is truth simply subjective to each individual? In other words, is there only...

What is it about loving and being loved that makes it seem impossible to live without - and yet (at times) impossible to live with? I'm so confused! I'm thirty-two years old and have never even had a girlfriend. I am constantly reminding myself that I will never have a relationship, that it's just "not meant to be." Is this cynicism, or is life actually telling me that I will never find love?...

Is 'awakening' the ultimate goal in our spiritual journey? The sleeping nature rules my life most of the time. If I keep working to come awake in small moments, will there be a full awakening for me at some later time? I have had moments of spiritual awakening. Yet, these moments seem to fade all too quickly. When such moments arise, I have a new depth of clarity and silence. Are there any spe...

Topics covered: What is the single greatest obstacle to awakening; There is a nature in you that wants you to forget everything vital to you; God never ceases to be present; The sign of 'spiritual dehydration' is not being able to think of anyone but yourself; There's a fine line between surrender and discipline; Your Father knows what you need before you do; A spiritual school is necessary be...

In my job I must deal daily with a couple of dozen emotionally dark co-workers. I can tolerate just so many of these kinds of people per day (as we all have to), but a couple of dozen is just too many for me to take. What can I do to handle this situation better besides getting another job? How can a person feel in charge of his own life one minute, and in the next minute find it in someone el...