Living the paradoxes

Embracing Paradox_ Spiritual Insight and the Wellspring of Mystery

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The important question we need to ask ourselves is, “How do we embrace the paradoxes?” Embrace them fully, rather than merely enduring or quickly resolving them to alleviate the tension. The moments when we confront or come to terms with our contradictions are often turning points and opportunities to enter into the profound mystery of Life. We intentionally use the term mystery to allude to depth, an unfolding future, boundless freedom, a kind of beauty and truth that cannot be fully expressed or defined. 

Many spiritual teachers often talk about the God-experience as a simultaneous descent into darkness and a sense of grounding. This may seem contradictory, but when we allow ourselves to embrace the unknown, boundless, and unknowable aspects of life, we come to realize that it is actually a nurturing and expansive space where we don’t need to be concerned about being right or wrong. In this space, we are supported and held, relieving us from the need to constantly hold ourselves together. Take a moment to contemplate this. 

This paradox of the divine experience may be the ultimate contradiction: “falling into the hands of the living God” (Hebrews 10:31). When we can fully embrace it without resistance or explanation, falling into the depths becomes a grounding experience, a solid foundation. This goes against our logical, dualistic thinking; it can only be truly understood through personal experience. That is why mystics use awe-inspiring metaphors, although none of them can fully capture or describe this profound encounter.

Mystery is not an unknowable concept. Instead, mystery represents an infinite potential for knowledge on multiple levels. Existing within this limitless potential for knowledge provides a sense of comfort, a solid foundation of unwavering support, security, love, and everlasting care. It often requires a significant portion of our lives to reach this point; it is undoubtedly what we refer to as “growing” in our faith. Every individual must embark on their own journey of learning, hopefully finding inspiration in those who possess strong faith.

The wellspring of spiritual insight lies in the ability to embrace questions and paradoxes with patience, rather than seeking quick and absolute certainties. It is far more valuable to resist the urge to jump to conclusions or pass judgment, as the ego and dualistic mind tend to do. The ego craves the assurance of being right and standing on its own self-created “stable” foundation, rather than surrendering to the mysterious stability of the abyss. This is why many religious practices remain underdeveloped and often serve as a refuge for individuals who prefer control over surrendering to a nurturing and loving presence.

Having a wise companion or a knowledgeable spiritual guide can be beneficial to support us as we navigate through the darkness, patiently waiting and holding on in the threshold space. The dual thinking mind is unable to handle such situations, as it cannot comprehend paradox. However, the non-dual mind not only embraces mystery but also finds solace within the depths of the unknown. Non-dual consciousness feels at ease within the abyss.

By Frantisek Strouhal and Chantal Robert ©Call of The Sea