Exploring the Discomfort of Spiritual Seeking

As we deepen our understanding of non-duality, it becomes clear that seeking for happiness in the world is a futile exercise. But sometimes we continue the search without even realising it, and in so doing perpetuate the separate self.

Rupert says: ‘There’s the conventional search for happiness in objects, substances and activities, and the more refined search in spiritual practices, methods and so on. But sooner or later even all that has to come to an end. By seeking, and therefore avoiding the longing in yourself, even by doing something spiritual, you’re just allowing the longing to perpetuate itself.

‘It would be much more spiritual to turn around and face the discomfort. Seeking can never be fulfilled – it can only subside or be undermined. So, be careful with spiritual practices and books. They’re all necessary and helpful, and we should engage in them, but be sensitive to when they cease undermining the separate self and instead perpetuate it.’