Recently, my partner and I have transformed our morning routine into a beautiful ritual. We now sip coffee together, savoring its warmth, and share our dreams. During this serene time, I delve into the words of Krishnamurti’s profound meditation book, The Book of Life: Daily Meditation. This remarkable work comprises 365 meditations, each specifically designed to guide us on a path towards spiritual enlightenment.
Engaging with these meditations is like undergoing a personal psychoanalysis, as they dismantle the mental constructs shaped by our past conditioning. As I immersed myself in this practice, I had a revelation: inner peace was rare in my life. Instead, worry, anxiety, and fear constantly consumed me, even in moments devoid of external triggers. I realized I had been unnecessarily burdening myself by creating worst-case scenarios in my mind.
This realization catalyzed another important discovery. I recognized that worries and concerns had preoccupied my mind, leaving no room for creativity. As someone who relies on creativity for my livelihood, I understood that I was unintentionally sabotaging my life.
Bertha Pappenheim, born on February 27, 1859, in Vienna, grew up in a strictly orthodox Jewish family. Her father, a wealthy man who had inherited a grain trading company, provided her with a privileged upbringing. However, Bertha felt confined and suffocated by the rigid expectations of her family and their orthodox lifestyle. Eventually, she rejected these traditions and embraced a different path.
During her time caring for her ailing father, who suffered from a fatal illness, Bertha experienced the first signs of mental illness. Seeking help, she called upon Josef Breuer, a prominent physician, to treat her. After a thorough examination, he diagnosed Bertha with hysteria, a condition characterized by the autonomous appearance of dissociation for neurotic reasons.
Breuer began visiting Bertha daily and observed that her condition seemed to improve whenever she had the opportunity to share her private thoughts and stories. This realization led to the development of what would later be known as the “talking cure.” However, despite its initial success, the effects of this method were only temporary, and Bertha’s mental health continued to deteriorate.
As her condition worsened, Bertha was admitted to a psychiatric ward for treatment. However, her time in the ward proved to be a turning point in her life. It was during her stay that she discovered a newfound passion for writing children’s books. This creative outlet became a source of healing, allowing her to express herself and find solace in storytelling.
Through her writing, Bertha Pappenheim found personal healing and made a lasting impact on the literary world. This achievement led Bertha to become a women’s advocate. Bertha found a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment.
This realization led to the development of what would later be known as the “Writing Cure.”
Moreover, I have come to appreciate the significance of documenting our newfound awareness. By putting our thoughts and observations into writing, we can redirect our focus towards a more positive state of mind. Clearing our communication channels becomes crucial if we aspire to connect with the divine. To invite inspiration and higher wisdom, we must first empty our minds.
Consider this: when you are in a state of awareness, who is truly aware? Is it your ego or your higher self? Have you paid close attention to the intricate workings of your thoughts and emotions?
Embracing awareness and diligently documenting our journey are the keys to unlocking a more fulfilling existence. Doing so creates space for growth, inner peace, and the unfolding of our creative potential.
