From here to here

[Babysteps]

LU is focused guiding for seeing there is no real, inherent 'self' - what do you understand by this?
The separate self that I have habitually taken myself to be does not exist. What I am is awareness. Unbound. Unchanging. My habitual sense of 'I' is like a mirage in the desert, and once I truly see that, my experience of life will be different. It does not mean it will be comfortable - but the up and down changing experiences will have no 'I'.

What are you looking for at LU?
I am looking for a guide who has already seen through the separate self to challenge me, point out my blind spots and nudge me - robustly, if need be, through the gate. I imagine I will be fearful at times and need encouragement. Calling me out on BS and/or intellectualising is also likely to be helpful ; ) I had an insight on a retreat last year - thinking I know is getting in the way of me truly knowing. I am also looking for a community that knows awakening is possible and wants to support others in waking up. I feel my work as a meditation teacher and an academic coach (day job) would be more effective if I was not in my own way.

What do you expect from a guided conversation?
A robust, honest, open and challenging exchange. I am hoping that the frequency of exchanges - the site suggests every day - will hold me to account. I suspect I avoid the things that are likely to be most effective. (At the moment, I believe that could be journaling - self-enquiry) as well as TRE to release long stored tension. I have started doing somatic practices and they are making a difference.

What is your experience in terms of spiritual practices, seeking and inquiry?
I have been on the progressive path for many decades. I was a follower of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh/Osho (I know!) in the late 70s/early 80s for four and a half years. More recently - for the last 35 years! - have been involved with Shambhala and now teach in that tradition. I became interested in non-duality a couple of years ago and following Angelo for almost a year. I now believe that waking up is possible for everyone and need not take lifetimes as my buddhist sangha takes as a given. I have done many retreats - not only with Shambhala but also Ram Dass and Thich Nhat Hahn. I have had glimpses but nothing sustained.

On a scale from 1 to 10, how willing are you to question any currently held beliefs about 'self? 11

[Calabaza]

Hi Babysteps,

Are you still interested in a guide? I know it's been a while since you posted.

My name is Dee. I'd be delighted to accompany you if you're still interested :).

Please let me know.

Warmly,
Dee

[Babysteps]

Dear Dee,

Thanks so much for replying. I was away on holiday when you responded so I am sorry this response took a while.
I have just started the 8-week course that Ilona runs. We've just completed week 1.

Would it be okay if I complete the course before getting back to you about whether I still need a guide?

I imagine there are plenty of other people waiting for guides so do let me know if this is not okay.

In the meantime, thank you for your generosity in guiding people through this platform.

Warm wishes,

Vinita