If you are to truly understand mysticism, and integrate it into your life, you must learn how to feel, think and act “outside the box.” You cannot remain within the confines of traditional notions or the commonly accepted ways of approaching this world. Escape from that prison! The divine life is without constraints or limitations.
The imagery here is quite appropriate. What if you had to make all your decisions about living while detained in a jail cell? The cells may be open for brief periods each day, but the prisoners are still surrounded by walls. There are also walls around cells of everyday life. We are restricted by our ability to control our emotions, mind and body. Even with full command of our “self,” we must live within the restraints of Nature and society. Freedom is relative.
“Free will” is really quite limited, despite belief that we control ourselves and our lives. We think we have endless choices...until we try to make them. Each decision must not only be based on what we “want to do,” but also on our own capabilities and what is expected of us. Nature and society imprison us, whether we like it or not. The key to release is mystical realization. All in One and One in All, the divine unity, opens the gate between heaven and Earth...between a universal consciousness and most people’s constrained awareness.
When you live outside the box of everyday life, even momentarily, you become aware of how those around you are confined. It is like being the only sober person at a cocktail party. You might not have as much fun now, but you will certainly feel a lot better tomorrow. Breaking out of mundane sentiments, worldly thoughts and mortal body enables you to view life more objectively. You see things as they are, not just through the haze of intoxicated egoism or partying individuality. True Reality is much more impressive than “realities.”
The feeling of being “boxed in” is common. Sometimes we feel that our emotions are ruling our life, at least for the moment, even though we know that they ought not. At other times our endless thoughts seem to be in command, when we should be doing what is required. Our body often holds us back from complete living; we are too hungry, too tired and/or too sick to perform our best. We frequently become our own jailer. Mystics can break free.
Outer walls are the boxes of Nature and of society. Inclement weather, lack of sunlight, gravity, and/or other natural phenomena may restrain our movements. Our own natural aptitudes, practiced talents and learned skills are always lacking in some areas. Human nature is controlled mostly by society. What we believe that other people expect of us greatly influences how we feel, think and act. Considering the reactions of our family, friends, business associates, community, and/or nation determines much of what we do. Those “laws” of Nature and society govern our lives, usually more so than we wish. Mystical awareness can allow us to obey divine law here and now.
Mysticism is not an escape from this life, it is learning how to live fully while still in this prison. “Escape,” whether you call it baqa, moksha, nirvana, or some other word, usually comes after this life for those who are enlightened. Some might say “life is hell” and, in a figurative sense, they could be right. Even the most enjoyable lives have their share of sorrows, troubles and suffering. Spiritual