One Truth, One Problem

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 In the ShiNa School, our core teaching is centered around one essential truth: the nature of the mind is a field of infinite potential and possibilities. This foundational understanding positions the mind itself as akin to the quantum field—the very fabric from which our universe arises. Essentially, our mind and the universe are inseparable, unified in potentiality, suggesting that our inner consciousness directly mirrors universal creation.

This concept parallels the idea of dark matter, an invisible yet potential-rich space awaiting manifestation. Similarly, traditional teachings describe this fundamental nature as emptiness or void, a space from which all things arise and to which they ultimately return. Recognizing this truth illuminates our real challenge in life: ignorance of our inherent nature.

Our primary difficulty stems from believing we are limited by external physical reality. When we perceive life through the restrictive lens of Newtonian physics rather than the expansive view offered by quantum physics, we encounter unnecessary struggles. Newtonian physics suggests a fixed, tangible reality, whereas quantum physics reveals a dynamic field of probabilities and possibilities beneath the surface, down to the subatomic particles like electrons, protons, and quarks.

This misunderstanding leads us to mistakenly equate material wealth and possessions with happiness. While spiritual teachings repeatedly highlight that happiness isn't dependent on external possessions, our daily experiences often contradict this. There are moments when we have wealth but feel empty, and times of scarcity when we experience profound joy. This paradox illustrates that what truly matters isn't the external world itself, but the subjective value and meaning we assign to it.

Value, inherently subjective, defines our sense of satisfaction and happiness. Consider cars—preferences vary widely from Oldsmobiles to niche brands like Subaru or Isuzu. Each choice carries significant value to its adherents, though completely irrelevant to others. This demonstrates that life's beauty and richness are intimately tied to individual values and perceptions rather than objective material standards.

Understanding this principle reveals a profound secret to happiness: what enriches life is not merely acquiring things, but recognizing and cultivating what we uniquely value. Misery often arises from following paths or advice misaligned with our true values. For instance, financial advice that focuses solely on wealth accumulation might resonate deeply with one person yet entirely miss the mark for another who values leisure, simplicity, and relationships.

Thus, genuine satisfaction emerges from aligning our lives with personal values. Careers, relationships, and even leisure activities become more fulfilling when they resonate with what we deeply appreciate. This alignment allows us to express our highest quality, which is invariably reflected and appreciated by others.

Moreover, it's the quality—not quantity—of what we engage with that enhances our experience. High-quality experiences aligned with our personal values are far more fulfilling than abundant yet meaningless ones. Someone who loves fine sushi will find greater happiness in a single exquisite piece than in heaps of low-quality alternatives.

At the heart of this quality lies the cultivation of presence and mindfulness. Spiritual traditions consistently emphasize meditation and mindfulness practices precisely because they enhance the quality of our attention. Improved mindfulness enriches our everyday experiences, allowing us to find greater joy and meaning in all aspects of life.

Ultimately, the greatest problem we face is the lack of recognition that the quality of our minds determines the quality of our lives. Elevating our mind's quality aligns us with universal potentiality, enabling profound experiences of unity and happiness—the "God experience." Recognizing and nurturing the intrinsic potential and value within our minds liberates us from unnecessary suffering, enriching not only our lives but the lives of those around us.

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