We so habitually separate. We, psychologically, separate the perceiver from “that which is perceived” so readily, so habitually, just as we were taught… and just as primitive conflicting, opposing factors (over eons) have dictated. Time, additionally, is separated. Of course, chronologically, actual physical time (in many, limited respects) has sections, but we, psychologically, almost constantly live in (and “as”) the past, as learned (stored) symbols, words, and concepts (of the past) that we constantly use (and are protrusions of what was poured into us). What is projected internally (psychologically) is what we are (i.e., what we actually are) fundamentally. If we remain in the old and limited, we remain old (internally) and limited. Even our concepts about the future are extensions of past accumulated (old) symbols/patterns. (Even when we think that we often live in the present, we — in actuality — do not.)
One can’t choose to perceive correctly… any more than one can choose to be wise or choose to be a genius. Choice and will are not keys to vast understanding. Understanding takes place when limited perception and fragmentation are not dominating factors. Will and choice are crude extensions of limited fragmentation; the chooser separating himself (or herself) from the choice is a mere continuity of primitive, illusory, fragmentary opposites. When fragmentation and limited perception no longer dominate, then there is a wholeness that is not the result of a mold or a mere blueprint.
Wildflower Flower Pods … Photo by Thomas Peace c. 2018 .JPG
Tom's Nature-up-close Photography and Mindfulness Blog 
Separated in our minds, yet part of one grand unity. ~Through nature, we are here to awaken from our illusion of separateness. ~Thich Nhat Hanh
Appreciate it but please don’t continue leaving quotes by Thich Nhat Hanh in my blog site. There are some good things that he says but there is a lot that he says that is also quite erroneous and primitive. Even in the above quote from him, it is suggested that we can awaken through nature. However, nature itself is full of violent conflict and pockets of separateness; additionally, there is no “path” to truth (i.e., to what is pathless), so there is no getting there through nature.
“protrusions of what was poured into us” – indeed.
Yes, Jazz, few of us really generate anything original, unfortunately, being what so readily coughs up what was merely swallowed.
Ah those mind maps, yes the pure essence of the present moment are gold
Yes, Paul, the map is not the territory! 🙂