Lesson 1, Level 2, Reading Assignment: Introduction Into Egyptian Yoga.& Neterian Spirituality Workbook
Pages 21-22
Personal Assessment Questions
1. How would you describe your knowledge of religion and philosophy?
Limited, spotty. Although I have been searching this lifetime for answers in the area of spirituality, no one could answer my questions in a way that I could apply teachings in my life. I see now that the people, books or lectures I was going to for answers could not help me because they did not know the answers themselves. The most important thing I have learned is that intellect does not lead you to truth. Intellect allows a person to interpret or perceive information filtered through their ari, polluted by the unpurified mind. Taking the responsibility that I polluted my mind and therefore I have the power to purify it, is the first step in my journey. It is extremely humbling to come face to face with one’s ignorance.
2. What do you see as the greatest obstacle to your happiness and fulfillment in life? Staying on the path of righteousness as I interact in the world. I must work to survive. Although, interacting gives me an opportunity to find the areas in my mind I must cleanse, it is an effort to be diligent and aware at all times. The tool I must use to reach enlightenment (the mind) is the same tool that is attempting to stop me from reaching my goal.
3. What do you see as the most important need that you have? Information and guidance on how to apply the teachings in my life.
4. What is your previous affiliation or faith and how do you think that relates to what you are following now? I was raised as a Jehova’hs Witness and intellectually followed because that is what I was taught by my mother. However, I always had questions that were never answered. I practiced metaphysical techniques and teachings for the past 25 years and although the techniques helped me to keep my sanity (relative), it did not provide me with wisdom.
5. What role do you feel religion or spirituality plays in your life? There is nothing else. I have the knowledge and through experience am aware that there is no other goal for me in life. Everything in my life is a means to reaching that goal. Experiencing me as I truly am is the only purpose in my life. As I write this I am beginning to become aware of the concept of illusion.
What I thought myself to be is not who I am.
6. Have you had any previous Yoga instruction? If so where and what was (is) your experience? I had a private class, twice a week for six weeks. It was a form of exercise only.
7. Have you received any advanced religious instruction? Relative to this, no.
8. How do you see your life? I see my life as being productive. As I look back over the years, through the teachings I understand that I have been working through a great deal of karma. It explains why now it seems as if I have a clear path. The entanglements of life are few for me. Although I have family and friends no one lives close to me, I am in a city where I have no close friends or family. No distractions. Although I work and commute 2 hours each way, I can devote the rest of my time to the teachings and my practice.
9. What do you think of your own potential to succeed in life?
I have the willpower and determination, all I needed was an authentic preceptor to guide me, my potential to succeed is extremely high.
10. If you could, what would you like to do with your life? Set an example for others and share what I have learned. I realize this answer will change. As I learn more about true self I will learn not only what I would like to do with my life, but my life’s purpose.
