Mind and Self - Chapter 4
Aron returned to his tent without uttering another word, closing his eyes with a sense of determination.
After scrutinizing his mind and memories, he discerned the next steps required to embark on the path.
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Step 1: Calming the Mind: In the pursuit of the Path of Existence, the first step demanded the delicate art of calming the mind.
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"I am not surprised..."
Aron thought.
It is only to be expected for a path like "existence" to focus on thoughts and the mind itself.
Aron embraced this initial phase.
Letting go of mundane thoughts and external distractions, he allowed his mind to settle, akin to a tranquil pond.
"Calming the mind," Aron contemplated.
"This should not be hard. I remember being quite interested in these kinds of spiritual practices."
Confident in his ability to calm his mind, Aron wasted no time and initiated the process.
Seated cross-legged with closed eyes, he focused on his breath, replacing turbulent thoughts with the rhythmic sounds of inhalation and exhalation.
"Focus, Aron," he murmured, using the mantra to guide his thoughts.
As he calmed his mind, he recalled wisdom from Earth, whispering words that granted him strength and understanding of himself.
"The mind, like a tempest, settles with each breath," he whispered, attuning his awareness to the surrounding sounds of nature and even the distant argument between Margan and Elisia outside the tent.
"They live harsh lives; it is only expected for them to seek something in return for saving my life," Aron reflected, acknowledging occasional disruptions to the stillness.
Yet he consciously redirected his focus to the present, transforming the tent into a sanctuary of calm amidst the chaos of the gray universe.
After about an hour, Aron opened his eyes with a satisfied smile. "It is a success," he acknowledged, feeling the completion of the first step.
"Now, onto step two. I understand now why the book claims that the Path of Existence is the easiest to enter. Anyone with intelligence and practice can embark on this path."
Aron closed his eyes again, steeling himself for the next challenge.
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Step 2: Feeling the Self: With the foundation of a calm mind established, Aron seamlessly transitioned into the second phase.
This involved a profound exploration of selfhood, detached from any specific doctrine but rooted in universal principles.
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"This is harder than calming the mind, but I know I can do it."
Aron affirmed, determination filling his spirit.
He delved into the intricate corridors of his inner sanctum, guided not by esoteric doctrines but by the universal essence connecting all beings.
Within thirty minutes, Aron managed to establish a connection with his inner self, recognizing that this was just the beginning and that more practice was required.
"In the end, this level of mastery should be enough to pass step two."
Aron thought, concluding the second phase.
Simultaneously, outside the tent, Elisia and Margan were engrossed in a heated argument about Aron.
Elisia's voice cut through the air, tinged with frustration and concern.
"Margan, I don't understand why you're so kind to that stranger, Aron. It's like you've taken him under your wing without a second thought."
Margan, with his rough exterior, sighed and looked at Elisia with a mixture of weariness and kindness.
"Elisia, you know I can't turn a blind eye to someone in need. Aron is lost, alone, and confused in this unforgiving place. We can't just abandon him."
Elisia's eyes narrowed, her red hair framing a face filled with worry.
"But, Margan, he's not one of us. We don't know anything about him. Why are you so attached?"
Margan's expression softened as he glanced toward the entrance of the tent, where Aron rested.
"Elisia, have you ever thought that maybe... maybe he reminds me of Danel?"
A heavy silence lingered between them before Elisia, her features softening, whispered,
"Danel, our son." Her voice quivered with the weight of the memories.
"But Margan, Aron is not Danel. We lost our son, and it's painful to think that this stranger could replace him."
Margan's eyes reflected a sadness that transcended the years.
"Elisia, I know Aron is not Danel. No one could replace our boy.
It's just that seeing Aron, around the same age Danel would have been, is like a chance to protect someone again.
A chance I didn't get with our own son."
Elisia's gaze softened, and a tear escaped, trailing down her cheek.
"Margan, you couldn't have protected Danel. It wasn't your fault."
Margan's eyes met hers, filled with an unspoken sorrow.
"I know, Elisia. But maybe, just maybe, I can protect Aron for the time being. Give him a chance to survive in this unforgiving world. It's the least I can do."