Layers Of Cloud

“The mind in its natural state can be compared to the sky, covered by layers of cloud which hide its true nature.”

-Kalu Rinpoche

 

I believe this quote reveals a truth, not only about our minds, but about our entire being.  The simple reality is that what most of us see in others, and what we reveal about ourselves, is not true reality.  The essence of who each of us really is may not be obvious to ourselves and is rarely obvious to others.  I have come to the realization that all people are complex whether they appear to be bright, dull, boring, or interesting.  A lot has gone into forming each of us into the image we see in the mirror or that person others see walking around.  Once I shared with a previous manager how I try to lead and how simple I thought it was to do what I do.  He replied, “That’s what makes you Michael Brown”.  Like all of you I am a product of everything I have experienced in my life so far.  This includes my childhood, my education, and every good or bad thing that has ever happened to me.  It would also include every person who has ever been a part of my life and who influenced me in any way, either as an inspiration or a warning.  However, our deepest and truest selves are often hidden from ourselves and others.  Our beings are like an onion that has many layers.  Each of these layers are like a cloud that hides our true nature.  Most of what we think about ourselves and most of what others see is an illusion.  The great quest of our lives is to break through the clouds and the illusion and see our true selves and our original face.