Spiritual an Explanation - (Part Three) by Raghavendra

Why Do We Try to Escape During Observation?

Over the past two weeks, we have seen that spirituality is not about escaping from life, and that inner growth is the capacity to observe oneself clearly. Based on this, some may have begun a simple practice of observation.

Spirituality is not about escaping from life; it is about meeting life as it is.

At this point, an honest question naturally arises:

• Why does the mind start wandering the moment I sit to observe?
• Why does boredom arise so quickly?
• Why do I feel like picking up my phone?

None of this is failure. In fact, it is a very important sign. The fact that we want to escape during observation shows that there is something within us that does not want to be seen. The human mind naturally seeks comfort and avoids discomfort.

When we sit down to observe, without external distractions, we come face to face with our inner discomfort.

• unresolved tension
• unexpressed fear
• suppressed anger
• memories we cannot accept
• deep-seated images of “this is who I am”

All of these remain hidden in daily life behind the covers of work, conversation, and constant activity. When we sit in observation, those covers slowly begin to fall away.

At that moment, the mind reacts:

• This is not necessary.
• This is painful to look at.
• Let’s do something else.

This is what we call escape.

Escaping during observation is not a bad habit. It is a protective mechanism that has developed over many years. At some point in life, this very escape may have protected us from breaking down. But today, the same habit keeps us away from ourselves.

Here is something very important to understand:

Boredom, fear, and resistance that arise during observation are not obstacles. They are the doorway to the path.

There is no need to change them. No need to eliminate them. No need to push past them.

Include them in observation as well.

• Right now, I feel like escaping.
• What sensation is arising in the body?
• Where exactly is this discomfort felt?

This much is enough. The purpose of observation is not to become calm. It is not to empty the mind. To meet reality without hiding is the heart of observation. If we remain present without escaping, even for a short while, the discomfort begins to change slowly. Even if it does not change, that is fine. A new inner strength— the capacity to stay with what is— begins to grow within us. That is the true sign of inner growth.

Next week, we will move into an even deeper inquiry:

How do we meet fear that arises during observation?

How do we learn to stay with discomfort?

Until then, notice the urge to escape. That itself is the beginning of observation.