Filtering Experience

Usually we think and feel that we are directly connected to our life experience and what it means. Personally I'm not so sure that's the case. In point of fact, it goes something like this.

1. Something (an event) happens externally.
2. The event is processed through the "Filter" that is composed of past experiences, values, and personal policies/rules.
3. We respond to the event, based on what our filter interprets the event means.

This is easy to see and understand, but here is the challenge. What if the filter is clogged, malfunctioning or broken all together? What is our life experience then? The implications can be staggering. How many times have we been in a situation, thought we really understood what happened - perhaps acting in a way that was a little tough, only to find out down the road that we had "misunderstood" or simply "gotten it wrong." Because of this I sometimes ask myself, is your filter working properly?

Zen practice by it's nature is the process of cleaning and/or fixing the filtration system. On top of this, it is always good to practice with an experienced teacher and others. They can identify when our filter is a little clogged, offer feedback and support that helps to put us back on track. You might think of this relationship as having a proof reader. I know when I write something, Deb will catch my mistakes long before I will. In this way, we have a real opportunity to experience and embrace our lives in a healthier way.

Jaye Morris, Curator
digitalZENDO