While in Saint Martin/Sint Maarten this spring, I finished a book by Osho called Awareness. I learned so much from the book. I highly recommend the read. I did manage to question a few of Osho’s views on ever-debatable topics such as medicine, scientific advancements, and surprisingly, the purpose of Yoga. But to me, in every respect, it’s healthy to question the views of your teachers and leaders–absolutely no one gets to stop learning.

Osho overwhelms readers with the concept of Awareness–as he should. Real awareness is very difficult to achieve and something people (maybe excluding Buddhas) must work for in every present moment. One of the best ways to achieve this concept of awareness is meditation. And, as Osho points out, there are several key points to remember along the way…

You are alive only in the proportion that you are aware. Awareness is the difference between death and life. You are not alive just because you are breathing; you are not alive just because your heart is beating.

We all know this is true. Zach Sobiech just taught the world this lesson over the last 24 hours. He’s not the only one though. So many people throughout our lives teach us this concept and somehow so many people manage to continue doing things they don’t enjoy doing. All because of fear, of failure, rejection, etc.

Why? Also, who cares?

Rejection is out of weakness—you are afraid. Stronger people would like to absorb everything that life gives. Religious, irreligious, moral, immoral, divine, devilish—it makes no difference; the strong person absorbs everything. And he [or she] is richer for it.

The next time you are faced with a decision that sparks concern(s) of rejection, keep it simple. Do what you are afraid to do. There is no chance for rejection when it will only make you stronger.

Control is a poor substitute for awareness, a very poor substitute; it doesn’t help much.

Awareness has nothing to do with being in control.

The world is beautiful, adventurous; it is a challenge, it enriches. Don’t lose that opportunity—whenever the world knocks at your door and calls you, go out. Go out fearlessly—there is nothing to lose, there is everything to gain. But don’t get lost. Don’t go on and on and get lost; sometimes come back home.

Hold that head up high, focus on what you have within, and go, go, go!

-C