The Illusion of Silence
Understanding our attachment to silence and calmness can be challenging, especially given the persistent thoughts and feelings that often dominate our minds. While a quiet mind is frequently perceived as a sign of spiritual progress and stability, this is not always the case. Here are some examples illustrating how a quiet mind does not necessarily equate to genuine spiritual advancement:
Firstly, silence can be achieved by suppressing our thoughts and emotions. I have often noticed this happening. When the mind senses the threat of disturbing thoughts or emotions, it naturally tries to divert or be distracted elsewhere. If we do not notice this, such avoidance can create an illusion of peace while underlying issues remain unresolved, hindering true spiritual growth. In more serious contexts, psychological factors such as trauma or depression can create a state of mental silence that is not indicative of spiritual health.
Secondly, silence can be used as an escape from the hassle of facing problems. I recognize this unhealthy trait in the need to create distance from experiences, unknowingly cultivating an unhealthy habit of numbing myself. This form of silence is more about avoidance than genuine inner peace.
Another effect of unhealthy silence occurs when the mind is quiet but dull. It becomes complacent, believing that its current understanding is sufficient. Such a mind is not keen to question, uninterested in contemplation, and sometimes sheer lazy to think! Complacency can prevent further growth and exploration of deeper spiritual insights. Spiritual progress often requires ongoing self-examination and the willingness to confront uncomfortable truths.
Sometimes, a quiet mind can result from disengagement from everyday life and responsibilities. I have also noticed that the mind retreats into silence or calmness when it is superficially undertaking a practice. It undergoes the process purely as a ritual or habit, without genuine intention or understanding.
True spiritual stability integrates wisdom and awareness into all aspects of life, not the pseudo-stability described in the scenarios above. But one may ask how to proceed then. Salvation lies in repeatedly noticing the various forms of pseudo-stability. Through such noticing, we appreciate the wisdom and awareness that facilitate recognition. It is through this recognition that we begin to uncover how the spell of delusion and ignorance actually works on us. In the process, wisdom and awareness gain momentum and become helpful traits, aiding our understanding of the intricacies of defilements.
In conclusion, while silence and calmness are often viewed as markers of spiritual growth, they can sometimes mask unresolved issues and hinder true progress. Genuine spiritual growth involves continuous self-examination, facing uncomfortable truths, and integrating wisdom and awareness into every aspect of life.
In gratitude,
Nancy Cheah
30 July 2024