As we approach the natural self it appears blank, dark or empty. This is because we first perceive it through the lenses of the false self, the self that needs abstraction to perceive at all.

This is a critical perceptual problem for not only students, but people in general. They simply can't see beyond the false self when perceiving as the false self.

But once we practice just long enough and with just enough guidance and discipline to keep our focus between the abstractions the false self keeps throwing up on the "screen" of our consciousness, we begin to take note that the abstractions are abstractions and not the reality the false self perceives them as. And then the blankness that lies between them begins to take on a subtle meaning as at least a larger context in which to consider the false self as a concoction of the mind.

From there the abstractions of the false self begin to dwindle and decrease in strength and impact. Their integration with one another begins to disintegrate and their projections of a false self and false world start to unravel. And the perception of nothing that covered the natural self begins to fade and in its place is first a silence and calmness.

And the journey continues...

Peace,

Anton Elohan