Calm reflection and introspection allow information to become integrated, correlated, and recontextualized. Thus, a contemplative state is more relaxed, open, spontaneous, and intuitive than goal-directed activities. Contemplation allows inferences and general principles to formulate spontaneously because it facilitates discernment of essence rather than the specifics of linear logic. A benefit of contemplative comprehension is revelation of meaning and significance.
Whereas meditation generally involves removal from the world and its activities, contemplation is a simple style of relating to both inner and outer experiences of life, which permits participation but in a detached manner. Intentional doingness is focused on result, whereas contemplation is related to effortless unfolding. One could say purposeful thinking is quite ‘yang’ in character, whereas contemplation is very ‘yin’. It facilitates the surrender and letting go of attractions, aversions, and all forms of wantingness or neediness.
From Reality, Spirituality, and Modern Man, Ch. 15, pg. 291-292
Thank you for the reminders. We are so blessed to have had doc on earth. Belong to a “Hawkins group”. So many blessings in this lifetime. Thank you for all you do to keep his teachings alive. Love and blessings. Ruth Ann
love this so much, thank you