PATTERNS IN LIFE: UNDERSTANDING REALITY BEYOND CONCEPTS
Everything is pattern. The human brain is inherently trained to recognize patterns and repeat them. From neural patterns that allow us to excel in our jobs to patterns of behavior that shape our lives, patterns play a significant role in what we perceive as reality. However, is what we see a true reflection of the universe, or are we merely observing patterns of our own minds?
Patterns vs Reality
According to Osho in his book, The Book of Secrets, patterns are constructs of the mind and can be quite sufficient for practical purposes such as learning and skill upgrading. However, when it comes to understanding spirituality, going beyond these patterns is essential. The reality beyond our perceptions may be identical for everyone, but the lens through which we view it is unique. For example, while Buddhists may argue that there is no substance in the world, merely a continuous process of movement, other cultures may perceive the world differently. This illustrates that while there may be a common reality, our interpretations of it are patterned by our beliefs and experiences.
Patterns in Our Lives
Life, as a personal journey, is a series of successes and failures. We experience moments of happiness and joy, followed by periods of struggle and unhappiness. These fluctuations do not occur in isolation; they are part of a continuous cycle that is in constant motion. Just as a cyclist must paddle to maintain control and progress, we must work hard to navigate the challenges and opportunities that life presents us.
Life can be thought of as a cycle. If we do not put effort into it, it will stagnate. In this sense, life is much like a cycling machine; if we stop pedaling, the cycle comes to a halt. Each decision we make, each action we take, is a choice to continue or to stop. We are not mere spectators; we are the drivers of our own destiny. Whether we are happy or not often depends on our choices and actions.
Predictability and Patterns
Predicting future outcomes can be influenced by recognizing patterns in a person's current life based on their lifestyle, beliefs, habits, routines, and personality traits. For instance, a person who is unhappy, stressed, or difficult to be around is likely to remain that way unless something changes. The dynamics between individuals are complex and interconnected, making it difficult to predict the future with certainty. Furthermore, as people's circumstances and beliefs change, so do their future outcomes.
Using intuition and wisdom, one can make educated guesses about a person's potential life outcomes. However, as soon as those factors change, the accuracy of the prediction begins to fluctuate. This illustrates the dynamic and interconnected nature of life, where factors can change at any moment, making it challenging to predict the future with complete certainty.
The Role of Patterns in Our Minds
The unconscious mind is a powerful force, often leading our thoughts, words, actions, and behaviors. When faced with external stimuli, we respond based on patterns that have been reinforced over time. However, our conscious mind has the ability to analyze and change these patterns, leading to personal growth and transformation. The news and media often exploit these unconscious patterns to sell products and agendas, reflecting the intricate relationship between our minds and the world around us.
Ultimately, understanding patterns in life can help us navigate its complexities. By recognizing and questioning these patterns, we can gain a deeper understanding of reality and spiritual truths. The key is to remain observant and open to change, rather than becoming stuck in fixed patterns of thought and behavior.