Unmasked

Courage in transparency

After years of philosophical study and contemplation, I have come to the conclusion that one of the most courageous attributes is transparency. Living with honesty. Most importantly, being truthful to oneself. Which translates effortlessly by being honest with others. However, when embarking on the path towards truth, one begins to realize the real work that needs to be done in peeling away the many layers of masks that have been acquired through the years. Often, they come about as coping mechanisms, or ways of fitting in, or even less becoming, to be downright deceitful.

This is one reason why delving into conscious practice, such as meditation, yoga, chanting, and the myriad of bodywork modalities out there, one can begin to recognize the layers of untruth they have been living. That is, if one is sincerely wanting to look. Basically, we can run, but we cannot hide when faced with our shadow, and the changes that need to be made. It demands, fierce self inquiry and self examination. But, not in the navel gazing, self-absorbed sense, but a striving to evolve, by being untethered to the weight of one’s conditioned existence.

What I have found interesting is the initial pull towards practice. For me, it was Ashtanga yoga many years ago. It led me down a path of self-discovery I was unprepared to realize at first. However, the more I leaned in, the better I felt in my own skin, even when navigating challenging times of change and letting go. It gave focus in the uncertainty of not knowing. When the future felt foggy, even aimless.

As I continued, I started to see the flip side of various community dynamics. Where fitting in was more important than truthful dialogue. That even questioning certain approaches in these spaces were not only unwelcome, but in a way, shut out. I’m not talking about troublesome, disrespectful behavior, as appropriate decorum is important. But, clique formation that felt counter to the exploratory nature of yoga practice. One begins to see just how solitary it can be when digging deeper internally.

Can we still be connected to a community and stand authentic in who we are?

What I have come to realize as one peels away their own mask, is it makes those with masks much more uncomfortable. You don’t even have to have difficult conversations. Simply being who you are can trigger very compelling, even fearful responses and backbiting talk. People love to label, which is interesting, because are we not trying to break free from our attachments to such things? The more I do the inner work to release from identifications, the less I want to pigeonhole others. We then start to become deeply connected to the beauty of presence that lives in the spirit. It’s formless—but oh, so real.

I’ve been in some spaces where the “group think” approach is a huge part of the culture. Even an “us vs. them,” mentality in terms of various points of few, or even political systems. Even better, are we not supposed to ride above transient belief systems and find common ground? I know it is not always easy, but hopefully these practices guide us to navigate the dance of perspectives more gracefully, if not patiently. Not everything is as it seems, at first. There can be much more to discover. Once we dig into the nature of our own psyche, we quickly learn just how multi-layered and multi-faceted it is and how that translates to humanity.

The dark side of this work is the pull to fit into groups, because it might draw one into greater thought loops, instead of free objective thinking. Everything is contextual. What may seem right in one moment, might feel wrong in another. Being present and clear is essential. Instead of holding a plethora of identifications and ideologies.

I used to be an idealist. Now I feel myself more a realist. Not jaded, but desiring to be open to the here and now, and to see it for what it is, instead of what it could or should be. That doesn’t mean not to aspire for a greater vision, but moves cannot be made without an immersion of what is here, now. That often utilizes real talk and uncomfortable dialogue from time to time. To actually listen instead of push an agenda. To be fluid in one’s thinking and have the courage to question belief systems periodically. Never being intimidated to receive more information that proves one may have missed something in terms of their stance on an issue.

There are those who speak only when knowing they will garner acceptance, or may not speak all, understanding behaviors are wrong and dishonest. When aligned, one checks inside first and then makes their move. It’s an instinct where gut decisions give strength necessary to stand true. Not an adjustment as if running for political office, with the desire to be liked. On the flip side, if I am confused by someone’s actions I have learned to keep a distance. Those who show inner confidence never leave one questioning. You always know where they stand. It’s clear. It’s concise. I appreciate this greatly, whether I agree or not.

I personally have much work to do as I internally clear away space to allow the luminous field of consciousness to unfold. I am game. I am all in. This could potentially bring ridicule and criticism, but again, when standing firm, connecting within, these ripples will not make waves. Fears become tamed. For the shield of awareness brings the protection that is needed.

When you start to peel away the masks, don’t expect support from friends or family. Some will approve, and many will not. As there are those who have gotten used to you playing small and being less free. It’s a reflection. The more authentic and true you become, the more you will see it when it’s not being played out. It doesn’t mean you have to call it out. However, knowing from wisdom, will give the tools needed to maneuver appropriately. When you know better, you do better. You align with those from the apex of truth.

Solely, I don’t mind those who are rough around the edges as they tend to be shamelessly who they are. Again, I am not talking about rude behavior. But, I so appreciate those who are simply themselves. There is no over compensation. In a way, they can be very generous in terms of one’s energy and presence. As I have been around those who are “nice,” but not very honest. What’s the point, then?

My best advice is to fill the space around you. Don’t play small, and don’t feel the need to over compensate. What makes the yoga practice powerful is the embodiment of being fully grounded within oneself. Where the truth always resides. Making that connection will never lead you astray. It is more about the feeling, than bending in unique ways. It’s more about the approach, than what it looks like. One just has to be careful of falling into the trap of working from the outside perceptive caring what the peanut gallery thinks. If this happens you will never be free.

Freedom. Liberation. It’s an inside job.

Peel away the mask and see what happens.
You may be living, but potentially not very alive.

The world needs you to be the best YOU.