The expression that serves as the title of this article is well known; but I wonder if persons realize the truth that lies beneath it. On the surface level, most of us understand that to truly know something–perhaps what it’s like to work as a paramedic, be a mother or a father, or be homeless–we must have direct experience. Anything less than that means that we’re speculating and, quite literally, don’t know what we’re talking about.

With regard to awakening to our essential nature, it “takes one to know one” is absolutely true. How else but to experience Oneness can we possibly know it? Books on the subject make this very clear; as do teachers who have realized true Self. A belief is not the same as knowing; for beliefs are rife with hidden passageways that lead away from Truth, not toward It. With regard to enlightenment, it’s imperative that we don’t mistake the map for the territory that it describes. The territory of our Being cannot be reached through pointers or descriptions; nor through assumptions, which have absolutely nothing to do with Ultimate Reality. All teachings are merely pointers to the way.

How, though, do we begin a journey that takes us nowhere beyond where we are here and now? I know of no greater way than to enter the cave of stillness; for in presence–with the mind and all of its personal stories in abeyance–we have opportunity to become aware of the Light of Awareness. Our search is over when we knowingly discover That.

The journey toward direct experience of “Takes One to know One” is a journey that must be taken alone. To arrive at That (which is the Source of All that ever was, is, or shall be), we’re not allowed to take our opinions or beliefs; nor can we follow someone else’s map. By Grace we will return to that placeless place which, in Truth, we never left. For those beings who are ready, this seeming paradox won’t be confusing in the least.

Dare to dream (and care for one another).

With warm regards,

Art

Copyright © – 2020 – R. Arthur Russell

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