On Discernment
Discernment, a concept that has sparked intense discussion in Undaunted groups, is a critical skill and is foundational to our work. What exactly is it? Why is it so crucial? Let’s delve into these questions and uncover the mechanics of this essential concept.
What is it?
Discernment is not just an abstract idea but a crucial skill that equips us to make wise decisions, steer clear of deception, and handle life's intricacies. It empowers us to differentiate between truth and falsehood, good and bad, and make choices that resonate with our true identity and purpose. Discernment is the compass that guides us toward living a principled life and making optimal decisions.
In the corporeal sense, our level of discernment is directly attributable to the keenness of our perception and the acuteness of our judgment. It is the combination of our insight, our ability to see into the heart of a subject and read a person's innermost character, and our ability to mark the differences in what we find.
If you’re on a spiritual path, discernment includes the Inner Knowing that comes from the profound understanding of one's own existence and the universe at large, which arises from the depths of one's being. It is not a process of learning from external sources or accumulating knowledge through books or teachings but rather a spontaneous recognition of the fundamental nature of reality. This inner knowing is not bound by the limitations of the intellect or the senses; it transcends the duality of subject and object, revealing the interconnectedness and unity of all things.
Intuition, something everyone has experienced, falls somewhere between the corporeal and the purely spiritual, acting as an obvious bridge between the two. It is a unique form of intelligence that operates beyond the scope of logical thinking. It's a kind of computing that doesn't require the step-by-step process of logical reasoning. Instead, it's a direct knowing or understanding that comes from a deeper connection with oneself and the world.
In the context of The Undaunted Man, we embrace discernment as a universal concept, recognizing its value for personal leadership and avoiding self-deception. Our approach is 100% inclusive, working equally well for people on a spiritual path and committed atheists; discernment is a skill that transcends belief systems.
So if good discernment is essential to the Good Life, how do we cultivate it?
The Mechanics
The first step in strengthening our discernment is enhancing our perception. This requires introspection, self-reflection and inquiry, education, and inner listening to:
identify our biases and assumptions about the world and recognize how they limit us.
develop our awareness and powers of unbiased observation.
separate ourselves from our thoughts and emotions.
maintain a quiet mind and presence.
develop gravitas and wisdom.
Methods and Applications
Insights from Tim Gallwey
Tim Gallwey, renowned for his work in the field of coaching and personal development, offers valuable perspectives on discernment. While his work is not primarily associated with any particular religious or spiritual path, his insights can be applied to the realm of inner growth and self-awareness.
The Inner Game of Discernment
Awareness and Observation:
Gallwey’s approach emphasizes awareness as the foundation for growth.
Discernment begins with keen observation of our thoughts, emotions, and inner experiences.
Self-Reflection and Inquiry:
Like the “inner game” in sports, discernment involves self-inquiry.
Ask: What beliefs drive my actions? What patterns repeat in my life?
Quiet Mind and Presence:
Gallwey encourages a quiet mind—a state of non-judgmental presence.
Discernment flourishes when we observe without labeling or analyzing.
Separating Self From Thoughts:
Detach from thoughts. Recognize that you are not your thoughts.
Discernment arises when we see thoughts as passing phenomena.
Practical Applications of Inner Discernment
Performance and Alignment:
Gallwey’s coaching principles apply to life beyond sports.
Discernment helps us align actions with our true purpose.
Feedback and Learning:
Just as athletes learn from feedback, we learn from life experiences.
Discernment involves learning from both success and failure.
Non-Attachment to Outcomes:
Gallwey teaches non-attachment to outcomes.
Discernment frees us from rigid expectations.
Mindfulness and Presence:
Be present in each moment. Discernment thrives in presence.
Observe thoughts without judgment.
Inner Coach and Observer:
Like a sports coach, become your own inner coach.
Discernment arises when we observe ourselves objectively.
The Game Within
Tim Gallwey’s work invites us to play the inner game—to discern truth beyond external noise. As we apply his principles to spiritual growth, we discover that discernment is not about finding answers but about asking better questions. In the quiet spaces of self-awareness, we glimpse deeper truths.
Spiritual Discernment: Insights from Sadhguru
Sadhguru, a renowned yogi, mystic, and visionary, offers profound wisdom on spiritual discernment. His teachings transcend religious boundaries, emphasizing direct experience over blind belief. Let us explore the concept of spiritual discernment through Sadhguru’s perspective.
Understanding Spiritual Discernment
Beyond Dogma and Doctrine:
Sadhguru encourages seekers to move beyond dogmas and rigid doctrines.
Spiritual discernment involves direct perception—a personal exploration of truth.
Inner Exploration:
True discernment arises from inner exploration. It is not about accepting external authorities but seeking answers within.
Sadhguru often says, “Don’t believe; know.”
Awareness and Clarity:
Discernment requires heightened awareness. Clarity arises when the mind is still and receptive.
Meditation and self-inquiry enhance discernment.
Transcending the Mind:
The mind is an accumulation of the past. To discern truth, one must transcend the mind.
Beyond thoughts lies a deeper knowing.
Practical Applications of Spiritual Discernment
Question Everything:
Sadhguru urges seekers to question everything, including spiritual teachings.
Discernment involves critical inquiry and experiential validation.
Inner Guidance:
Trust your inner guidance. It is more reliable than external opinions.
Listen to your intuition; it often leads to truth.
Experiential Wisdom:
Discernment is not theoretical. It arises from direct experience.
Seekers must validate teachings through their own inner journey.
Avoid Blind Faith:
Blind faith stifles discernment. Seekers must experience before they believe.
Sadhguru says, “Belief is a poor substitute for experience.”
Discrimination and Choice:
Discernment involves discrimination: distinguishing between what uplifts and what binds.
Make choices aligned with your inner truth.
Detachment from Conditioning:
Discernment requires detachment from cultural, religious, and societal conditioning.
Unlearn to discover truth.
Silence and Stillness:
Silence the mind to discern deeper truths.
Stillness reveals what words cannot express.
The Path of Knowing
Sadhguru’s teachings emphasize knowing over believing. Spiritual discernment is not about accepting handed-down truths but about directly experiencing the sacred. As seekers, we must cultivate inner clarity, question relentlessly, and trust our inner compass. In the words of Sadhguru, “Spiritual discernment is not about finding answers; it is about asking the right questions.”
Group Discernment in the Quaker Tradition: Seeking the Sense of the Meeting
Quaker decision-making is not a solitary endeavor; it is a communal process that seeks to discern the will of God collectively. Rooted in the belief that the Spirit works through the gathered community, Quakers engage in group discernment to make important decisions. Let us explore the reasons for and benefits of this practice within the Quaker tradition.
The Sense of the Meeting: Unity Beyond Voting
Beyond Voting: Quakers do not rely on voting to determine the majority view. Instead, they seek the “Sense of the Meeting.” This process acknowledges that truth transcends individual perspectives. When several people labor together in the Spirit, they can discern a deeper truth—one that exceeds the reach of any single person.
Unity and Wisdom: Quaker decision-making prioritizes unity over mere numerical agreement. Rather than counting votes, Friends seek consensus on the wisest course of action. This approach recognizes that collective wisdom emerges when hearts and minds are open to divine guidance.
Grounded Experience and Spiritual Openness: Quaker process combines grounded experience with spiritual openness. Participants share their insights, listen respectfully to others, and remain open to new ideas. This blend of rationality and faith allows a deeper truth to emerge—one that resonates with everyone present.
The Role of the Clerk: The clerk’s role is crucial. They sense the emerging truth and work with the community to articulate it. The goal is not to impose a decision but to express the collective discernment. The clerk’s task is to put that truth into words.
Benefits of Group Discernment
Spiritual Depth: Group discernment invites participants to connect with the Divine Presence within themselves and others. It fosters a sense of sacred community where the Spirit guides the process.
Inclusivity: Quaker decision-making values every voice. Everyone is encouraged to participate fully, sharing their experiences and knowledge. No one is excluded, regardless of status or expertise.
Collective Wisdom: By pooling insights, Quakers tap into collective wisdom. The diversity of perspectives enriches the discernment process, leading to more thoughtful and holistic decisions.
Transcending Ego: Group discernment challenges individual ego and self-interest. Participants learn to set aside personal agendas and listen deeply to others. The focus shifts from “What do I want?” to “What is best for the community?”
Consensus over Conflict: Quaker process aims for consensus rather than conflict. When everyone recognizes the same truth, unity emerges naturally. Decisions made in unity carry a spiritual weight that transcends mere agreement.
Spiritual Growth: Engaging in communal discernment cultivates spiritual maturity. It requires humility, patience, and trust in the Spirit’s guidance. Participants learn to surrender their will to a higher purpose.
Shared Responsibility: Quaker yearly meetings exist to support, nurture, and protect the discernment of each local meeting. This shared responsibility ensures that no single authority dominates. The community holds itself accountable.
Seeking Divine Wisdom Together
Quaker group discernment is more than a decision-making process; it is a sacred practice. As Friends labor together, they seek the Spirit’s wisdom—a truth that transcends individual limitations. In this communal journey, they find unity, depth, and a shared commitment to living out their faith.
In Closing
Think about all the people you have trusted in your life. Do they possess wisdom? Discernment? Think about their characteristics and your experience of being around and interacting with them. How did they make you feel? If you don't feel that way yourself or about yourself when you're making big life decisions, then you can benefit from developing your discernment.
If you'd like to go deeper in cultivating your own discernment—whether that involves taking your first step down the road, or your 1,000th step—I offer 1-on-1 men's coaching and also facilitate spiritual men's groups. If you're curious, reach out today.