UR NO 1: Solving the Riddle of Oneness

glowing.person-e1359732529927As I sat in my car waiting for a red light to turn green, I noticed the license plate of the car in front of me. UR NO 1. You are no-one. Then I realized that it could also be read a different way. You are number one. The license plate reflected both ends of the spectrum of ego. When you first read the title of this article, which pronunciation did you see? Recognize that what you perceive reflects what is within.

The ego has a delicate balance and self-esteem is often tested. Though we would like to control our environment, results seem to have limitations. Things don’t always go the way that we desire. As the center of our own universe, each of us looks for personal gratification. Though many realize that fulfillment comes from within, often our personal condition is reflected by the world around us.

glowing-woman3As humanity grows spiritually, we move towards oneness. We recognize that we are all part of the same energy field, in which each person is special and worthy and we are fully interdependent. However, if everyone is special, than no-one is. If equality is truly reached, then no-one has an advantage or disadvantage. Everything would be available for everyone. We would all be the same.

Somehow, I don’t think sameness is the target of oneness. The glory of humanity shines brightest with the unique contribution of individuals. While some have moved towards darkness, the history of humanity reveals the special creations of many unique souls. Through activities such as art, music, construction, science, and philosophy, people have added their special flavor to the sum total of human creation. Humanity is improved by a simple moment of joy or compassion by those who have the courage to help others shine.

man-sunlightIf you are no-one, then your uniqueness blends with everyone else, and you are part of the crowd. If you are number one, then you are special above everyone else. The paradox of existence is that both perceptions are true. If you only believe in one extreme or the other, an imbalance is created. If you are no-one, the ego can be bruised, and depression can set in. If you are number one, then sharing becomes less important, and others may suffer due to your self-centeredness.

As no-one, you have no responsibilities. As number one, you carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. The challenge of the new reality is to be able to exist in both places at once, expressing your unique and special presence as an equal part of the whole.

Transformation Exercises

1. Think of someone you hold in high esteem. What makes this person unique and special? In which ways is this person just like everyone else?
2. Think of someone that you know who doesn’t play a major role in your life. What makes this person unique and special? In which ways is this person just like everyone else?
3. Identify five different aspects of yourself where you play an important role model to someone else.
4. Identify five different situations where you blend in with the crowd.
5. Identify any discomfort that you feel with any of these roles.
 

Excerpted from Soulwork 101: A New Age Guide to Personal Transformation by Glenn Stewart Coles

©Copyright 2009, 2015 Glenn Stewart Coles
 
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