Thoughts & quotes from Sir David R. Hawkins, M.D., Ph.D. & Susan Hawkins – Page 68

Pride

There is a normal benign level of pride that is more correctly termed, ‘self-esteem’ or ‘self-care’. This refers to putting one’s best foot forward and normal satisfaction that result from successful effort and achievement. These forms of positive self-image are the result of effort and are therefore appropriate and not necessarily inflationary to the ego. They have been earned and have a realistic foundation.

Pride as a spiritual defect refers to pridefulness as an attitude and a positionality. It is an arrogance that can apply to beliefs, thoughts, opinions, and the general attitude of being better than others. This is an over evaluation of self-worth and is commonly referred to as egotism. Since it is not based on accomplishment and is unearned, it is fragile.

From I: Reality and Subjectivity, ch 12, pg. 266

The Light of Truth

Spiritual evolution occurs as the result of removing obstacles and not actually acquiring anything new. Devotion enables surrender of the mind’s vanities and cherished illusions so that it progressively becomes more free and more open to the light of Truth.

Illumination refers to those spiritual states where sufficient barriers have been dropped, either deliberately or unconsciously, so that a greater context suddenly presents itself, and in so doing, illuminates, clarifies, and reveals an expanded field of consciousness actually experienced as inner light. This is the light of awareness, the radiance of the Self that emanates as a profound lovingness.

From The Eye of the I p. 30

The Energy Field of Love

Love is self-fulfilling and thus does not seek gain or to compensate for lack. Because it does not need to ‘get’ it is therefore free to peacefully ‘be with’ and appreciate. To love, the world is more benign and its people appear more friendly and available. There is an increased feeling of safety and identification with mankind in general and concern for the welfare and happiness of others. The energy field is accompanied by a radiant aura that intrinsically has an effect on others who themselves then tend to become more benign as do their perceptions. This energy field has an influence on all of life, which intuits the safety of Love through the field effect. Characteristics of this level are an unmistakable ‘sweetness’ of personality, speech, attitudes, and lifestyle that is inwardly nurturing.

From Transcending the Levels of Consciousness, ch 14: Love, pg. 252-253

Simple Kindness

In this interconnected universe, every improvement we make in our private world improves the world at large for everyone. We all float on the collective level of consciousness of mankind so that any increment we add comes back to us. We all add to our common buoyancy by our efforts to benefit life. What we do to benefit life automatically benefits all of us because we are all included in that which is life. We are life…

Simple kindness to one’s self and all that lives is the most powerful transformational force of all. It produces no backlash, has no downside, and never leads to loss or despair. It increases one’s own true power without exacting any toll. But to reach maximum power such kindness can permit no exceptions, nor can it be practiced with the expectation of some selfish gain or reward. And its effect is as far-reaching as it is subtle.

From Power vs. Force, p. 150-151

Negative Emotions

Relationships

Question: I’ve been on a spiritual path for many years and do not understand why I still experience negative emotions.

Answer: There’s a common illusion that spiritually evolved, loving people never have any negativity, as though they are already angelic. They get annoyed that they still have negative feelings, and then it’s compounded by their guilt and self-frustration. They have to realize that feelings are transitory, whereas their intention to evolve remains constant. Let go of feeling guilty that you are still just an ordinary human despite your angelic ambitions! Having compassion towards your innate humanness, its nervous system, and the brain function that goes with it allows for greater equanimity. Heavenly ambitions do not necessarily make us angels!

From Letting Go: The Pathway of Surrender, ch. 21, pg. 320