I am positing here that by seeking enlightenment, enlightenment never happens. Seeking it instantly nullifies it happening. Seeking takes time, and one cannot obtain the timeless by practicing or doing things (to get it) within (and “as”) time. Thinking manifests in (and “as”) time. Thinking, per se, usually occurs for motives. When thinking is not necessary (for a period) then perhaps the element of timelessness can occur. But if one craves it or grasps for it… it will not happen. One must be indifferent about timeless enlightenment occurring. Then one is not merely seeking an end via some calculated means.
Understand the mind from moment to moment (without a final goal in mind). Someone commented to me recently that they found a method to practice meditation (and said that it was good for beginners). I replied by suggesting that any deliberate practice turns one into a secondhand human being. Additionally, it is very easy to fall into self-hypnosis and subsequently wholeheartedly consider it to be great meditation. Also, there are no “beginners” with this. ”Beginners” implies time; getting to the timeless via time may be a fallacy. Trying to attain enlightenment may merely reinforce a selfish ego (wanting to get something). Reinforcing a selfish ego does not lead to what is beyond deception and selfishness.
Tom's Nature-up-close Photography and Mindfulness Blog 
These are absolutely gorgeous photos Tom. And I believe you hit the nail one the head with this seeking enlightenment business…meditation may be helpful, especially to show folks how our minds chatter – but trying to control outcomes is absurd… not sure how people buy this…
Thank you, Sara! 😊 Many people make “seeking enlightenment” into some kind of cause/effect game, in which they can practice things to “get” something. That is so childish! Most people, i’m sure, are not too thrilled with what i write here… but that’s OK.
Tom, it they are not thrilled it is their problem I am afraid. You are attempting to interrupt a destructive ‘doing to get cycle’ by Naming what’s happening. That ‘you can’t get there from here’ is only apparent to a few or people or there wouldn’t be so many programs promising ‘enilightenment’
Yes, Sara. There are a lot of phony so-called gurus out there that people admire and cling to. And there are plenty of systems of meditation that people absorb and practice… which is such malarkey. I remember, when i was in college, there were so-called gurus from the east hanging around the campus preaching to us. And when i told them that what they were promoting was a form of self-hypnosis, they got upset. Lots of charlatans are out there.
Yikes Tom they are everywhere – now invading the mushroom world even as psychedelic healers – yuk.
I have to laugh at your experience in college – I remember them too – unlike you I once thought they might know something I did not – but I was also revolted by the followings so I never found out!
Well done snowflake macro. Congrats!!
Thank you, Michael! 😎
I couldn’t agree more Tom. Alas, it seems an endless search for some during which time others are used and hurt. I try my best not to be one.
Your photo intrigues me and I can’t decide if it’s icicle patterns or ? 🤔
Thanks, Margaret! 😉 The photo is of snowflakes accumulated on an evergreen bush.
Yes, so many people make “seeking enlightenment” into some kind of game… thinking that they can practice things to “earn it.” That is so silly. Practicing things (in order to get it) just makes the mind more and more dull and robotic.
The group of flakes is pretty, but the focus on the one snowflake shows just how perfect it is – a perfect specimen in an imperfect world. Too bad its beauty and perfection is so fleeting.
Thanks, Linda! 😉 Fleeting according to what you’ve learned and absorbed from our primitve and crass society… but not all that fleeting from my perceptions.
Very true, Tom! Live the best life you can and leave enlightenment to come on its own if it will… like that gorgeous snowflake!
Yes, Harini. You cannot pursue it. It might come to visit you. 😊
Beautiful image! I might have to agree with your logic, wondering if not enlightenment, maybe peace of mind can be achieved, though?
Thanks, Susi. 😊 Yes, peace of mind can certainly be achieved. And that, in itself, can be extremely great… wherein one is blissful without cause (and beyond being dependent on drugs, alchohol, or the opinions of others). Then one is one’s own light. (But don’t close the door on enlightenment… there is always a chance that it may occur; if it does… all the better.)
You’re welcome! Good, I’m glad you agree, Tom. 🙂