Openness, Availability &Vulnerability.mp4

Summary

The transcript explores the concept of openness as our true nature, emphasizing that we are pure sensitivity, availability, and vulnerability to all experiences. It highlights the distinction between our natural state of being and the imaginary self that creates resistance and preferences. The message underscores that this openness is not something we need to achieve or defend, but a state that is always present, untouched by external experiences. It invites us to embrace this inherent vulnerability, recognizing that it cannot be harmed, and to allow it to shape how we think, feel, and interact with the world.

Takeaways

• 😀 Openness is our true nature, and it is wide open, without any resistance or need to improve it.
• 😀 The mind doesn't need to change or control itself to become more open, because openness is already inherent in us.
• 😀 Our true openness is not affected by experiences—whether positive or negative—and remains untouched by them.
• 😀 The idea of a separate self is a mental construct that creates resistance to experience, leading to suffering or dissatisfaction.
• 😀 Any resistance to the present moment, such as not liking the current experience, comes from this imaginary self and not from our true openness.
• 😀 Our inherent openness is an all-encompassing 'yes' to every experience, pure sensitivity, and vulnerability without any attempt to control or alter things.
• 😀 This openness cannot be harmed, hurt, or stained by any experience—it remains pristine and unaffected by external circumstances.
• 😀 The inability to be harmed by experience comes from a lack of resistance, not from building defenses against pain or discomfort.
• 😀 The imaginary separate self creates defense mechanisms to prevent harm, but the true self is vulnerable and open, which paradoxically makes it invulnerable.
• 😀 To fully embody this openness, allow your thoughts, feelings, actions, and relationships to be permeated by this understanding, embracing a new way of being.

Q & A

What is the primary theme of the script?

The primary theme of the script is the concept of pure openness, sensitivity, and vulnerability to all experiences, without resistance, preference, or distinction. It emphasizes that one's true nature is already this openness and that no change is needed to become more of this openness.

What does the script mean by 'openness'?

'Openness' in the script refers to a state of being that allows all experiences, both pleasant and unpleasant, to flow through without resistance or interference. It is the natural state of being, free from the barriers created by the ego or the imagined self.

How does the script describe the relationship between the 'imaginary self' and true openness?

The 'imaginary self' is described as an identity formed by thoughts and feelings that resists or judges experiences. In contrast, true openness is free from such resistance. It is not affected by the thoughts of 'I don't like this' or 'I can't handle this.' The imaginary self creates separation, while true openness is a state of unity with all experiences.

Why is true openness described as 'pristine' and 'unharmed'?

True openness is described as 'pristine' because it is untouched by external experiences or the judgments of the mind. It cannot be harmed or stained because it does not resist or cling to experiences. It is a state of pure allowing, always available to whatever arises, without being affected by it.

What does the script suggest about defending oneself from experiences?

The script suggests that true openness does not rely on defense mechanisms to protect oneself from experiences. Rather, it is through the absence of resistance that openness remains unharmed. The idea is that defending or resisting experiences only strengthens the sense of a separate self, which is unnecessary for maintaining openness.

How does the script differentiate between 'resistance' and 'openness'?

Resistance is seen as the creation of barriers by the imaginary self, which tries to avoid or change experiences it deems unpleasant. Openness, on the other hand, involves allowing all experiences, whether positive or negative, to be just as they are, without judgment or interference. Openness is a state of full acceptance and availability.

What does it mean when the script says 'you cannot be hurt'?

'You cannot be hurt' refers to the idea that true openness is invulnerable to harm because it is not a separate, defensible entity. It cannot be hurt because it does not resist experiences or attempt to control them. This inability to be harmed arises from the openness itself, not from any defense or resistance.

What role does vulnerability play in the script's concept of openness?

Vulnerability is an essential aspect of openness in the script. It describes a willingness to be fully available to all experiences without closing off or creating barriers. Vulnerability here is not a weakness, but a strength that allows one to remain open to whatever comes, without being harmed or affected by it.

How can one live according to the principles of openness described in the script?

Living according to the principles of openness involves allowing thoughts, feelings, perceptions, actions, and relationships to be influenced by the understanding that you are already pure openness. This means letting go of resistance, being fully present to each moment, and embracing vulnerability without fear of being harmed.

What does the script say about the need for personal change or improvement?

The script suggests that there is no need for personal change or improvement to become more open. It emphasizes that you are already pure openness, and that trying to change or improve yourself is unnecessary. True openness is a state of being that is already whole and complete in the present moment.