Dive into the intriguing idea that our notions of 'who' and 'why' might be mere illusions. Discover how the question of a singular 'doer' could reshape your understanding of agency and free will. Explore the impact of language on perception and reality. The discussion unveils a unique class experience designed to expose the concept of 'no self.' Plus, learn about an upcoming silent retreat, where extended silence could lead to profound self-discovery and a deeper connection to your true nature.
00:00
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
insights INSIGHT
The Illusion of "Who"
The question "who is doing this if not me?" reflects a perspective of separate selves.
Without this perspective of individual "doers", the question becomes irrelevant.
insights INSIGHT
The Need for "Why"
The question "why" arises from a sense of a separate self needing to manage life.
Without a separate self managing life, the need for reasons diminishes.
question_answer ANECDOTE
The Lamppost Analogy
Dr. Johnson recounts a story about a man searching for his keys under a lamppost, even though he lost them elsewhere.
This illustrates how we often look for answers where it's easiest, not necessarily where they are.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
In looking for the doer, I often hear something like: “Who is doing all of this if there is no me and no doer?”
Does there have to be a who? Or is that who question just a remnant of the me-and-my-life perspective? Maybe there is no Who anywhere?
It’s similar to Why questions. Does there have to be a why, or is why, reasons, cause and effect simply something a separate self wants?
What if Who and Why are simply words that point to nothing?
***
There are two things coming up to tell you about.
First is a brand new class I’m leading beginning January 16th called No-Self Realization: A Thorough Search in Direct Experience for the Separate Self.
This 4-part class will be unlike other classes. We will inquire in direct experience, looking for the sense of I. I’ll lead volunteers through this inquiry while the rest of the class follows along. If you are confused about what “no self” really means, or maybe you know there is no separate I but it still really seems like there is one in experience, this is the perfect class for you. See more at dramyjohnson.com/noself
The second thing coming up is the silent retreat in late February in Gatlinburg. TN.
This retreat was designed for those who feel called by the still, unchanging silence that is your true nature. Prolonged silence with others is a very powerful way to rediscover and devote to the truth of who you are. It’s also a very powerful way to watch the self-ing mechanism at play and to deeply see this sense of “me” as a thought that comes and goes.
Changeable Podcast 