Each person has his or her own path to enlightenment. For some, it arrives spontaneously and unexpectedly, while others pursue it consciously. Regardless of the path, spiritual enlightenment marks a momentous occasion, representing a pivotal intermediate milestone in our infinite journey. It’s not the end of the story but rather a continuation of existence on a vastly different plane of life perception.
A multitude of myths and misconceptions surround the idea of enlightenment. Some posit that enlightenment elevates us to superhuman status, imbuing us with extraordinary qualities and abilities. Others emphasize the attainment of perpetual bliss and freedom from suffering. Still others promote the notion of ego dissolution and the eradication of negative emotions. These beliefs, if held too rigidly, can serve as formidable obstacles on the path to enlightenment.
Enlightenment is about cultivating a natural perception and sincerity in our thoughts, actions, and being. When our personality operates under extremely difficult circumstances, pain and suffering that comes with it are inevitable and cannot be avoided through self-deception or escapism. In this sense, enlightenment does not shield us from suffering and challenges. Instead, it empowers us to face our situations head-on and take necessary action. Enlightenment grants us the understanding that these sufferings belong to the realm of the small self, not the Higher Self, and that they represent an integral part of existence.
With enlightenment, beliefs evolve naturally, or rather, they fade away. Trust in life supersedes beliefs. Ultimately, you recognize that enlightenment itself is merely a concept, and you relinquish that as well. I too have let go of the notion of God… You simply embrace life with sincerity, naturalness, and spontaneity. You trust in the flow of life and follow the path that resonates with your heart.
As each individual possesses a unique small self, our enlightenment is equally distinct. If you have been suppressing your emotions, such as anger, you will need to embrace and express your emotional side. Adhering to old patterns will no longer be viable. Similarly, if you have engaged in self-deception or misled others, your approach will transform. Anything incongruous with your true nature will gradually fade away. A profound metamorphosis of your personality will unfold. You will be called to confront your shadow—the unresolved issues of your ego. This restructuring process can be intensely challenging. However, it is ultimately liberating, as it allows the Higher Self to emerge and its voice to sound more powerfully. All your experiences, emotions, actions, and thoughts will be perceived as stemming from and belonging to the Higher Self. True joy will blossom within you. You will be compelled to express love and compassion. You will recognize your interconnectedness with all beings.
Enlightenment transcends the domain of words. It is an experiential reality, a direct knowing that cannot be fully captured by language. Only through personal experience can the truth of enlightenment be grasped.
Drawing from my experiences with Kalipat sessions, I’ve observed that some people still seek a conceptual understanding of enlightenment, often anticipating superpowers or extraordinary states of consciousness (which may indeed manifest) as a result of their spiritual awakening. Such expectations can hinder progress, and to address this, I propose a working definition of enlightenment taken from Neale Donald Walsch’s book Conversations with God: An Uncommon Dialogue (Book 1), which emphasizes the inherent naturalness of enlightenment, devoid of any supernatural implications: “Enlightenment is understanding that there is nowhere to go, nothing to do, and nobody you have to be except exactly who you’re being right now.”