The Unwavering Light

Enlightenment is a topic of much discussion among those who travel to Rishikesh.  The seeking of it or the evidence of it provides an entire economy for the local people.  I have learned here from observing saints and holy men in the chaotic and often hostile environment that is India that enlightenment isn't a destination that resides somewhere off in the distant future.  It isn’t a trip I’ll take at the end of a hundred thousand more lifetimes. It isn't something I can't yet touch or feel.  Enlightenment is something I have touched, in blissful moments of meditation and grace where all life teems and swells in unity and oneness and joy.  In those special moments of life after meditation or blissful chanting, when the veil is lifted and my soul sings a song of unity with all creation, I have gotten there in some small way.  The difference between where I am and those who have achieved enlightenment is maintenance.  They can sustain this feeling and awareness permanently.  Where I sink back into darkness, and grumpiness and irritation and sadness sneak back into my life, the enlightened ones have a strength borne of discipline and care that allows them to exist in this state of super consciousness at all moments.  Enlightenment is discipline and strength.  It is maintenance and care.  It is extended and protracted.  It is someone who has touched samadhi with their conscious mind and then lives and moves from this feeling.  Enlightenment is going to the mountain top and instead of coming back down, pitching a tent and setting up camp.  It is an unwavering light, a candle that can no longer be blown out by the wind.  We are all candles, some lit some not.  Our job is to stop being just candles and start being just light.